Firefighters issue candle safety warning after Harrow house fire

Firefighters are urging Londoners to not leave candles unattended and to make sure they have working smoke alarms after a fire at a house in Christchurch Avenue in Harrow.

The occupant of the property was woken up by a smoke alarm sounding and they then discovered a fire on the ground floor. The occupant left the property and called the Brigade. One man was treated for smoke inhalation at the scene by London Ambulance Service crews.

The ground floor of the property was destroyed by fire. Part of the first floor was also damaged by fire.

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by an unattended candle on a religious shrine.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Candles, incense and oil burners are one of the biggest causes of fire within homes. Always keep an eye on these items to keep you and your home safe.

"It is also vitally important to ensure you have working smoke alarms in your property. Fortunately, this house was fitted with working smoke alarms which raised the alarm and alerted the occupant to the fire but there could have been a very different outcome if there was no smoke detection."

Top candle safety tips

• Always use a heat resistant holder on a stable surface, which won't be knocked over
• Tea lights can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath
• Keep these items away from materials that may catch fire such as curtains, furniture, clothes and hair
• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed
• Keep out of reach of children and pets

The Brigade was called at 0935 and the fire was under control at 1024. Four fire engines and 21 firefighers and officers from Stanmore, Harrow and Wembley fire stations attended the scene.