Flat fire - Tottenham

Firefighters are urging people to take care when cooking after a fire at a house converted into flats in Wimborne Road, Tottenham.

The fire was in a microwave on the first floor and the whole building was heavily smoke-logged.

Crews rescued a man from the first floor. He was treated for smoke inhalation and shock at the scene by London Ambulance Service crews.

Watch Manager Chris Haggar, who was at the scene, said: “The occupant had put his dinner in the microwave and then fallen asleep.

“This incident goes to show how important it is never to leave cooking unattended.

“There were also no working smoke alarms in the property so it was lucky there wasn’t a more serious outcome to this fire.

“Smoke alarms should be fitted in all rooms in the home and kitchens should be fitted with heat alarms.

"All alarms in the home should be tested regularly - at least once a month and when you return from holiday.”

The Brigade was called at 2032 and the fire was under control at 2055. Two fire engines from Tottenham fire station attended.

Practical steps for safer cooking 

With bubbling pans, open flames and maybe a little one or a pet underfoot, kitchens are potentially dangerous places. Here are our top tips to reduce fire risks:

• Try not to leave cooking unattended on the hob or grill – if you have to leave the kitchen, turn off the heat. 
• Not feeling 100%? Order a takeaway – if you're very tired, have been drinking alcohol or are taking medication that might make you drowsy, it's safer not to risk it. 
• Be fabric aware – loose clothing can easily catch fire, so take care not to lean over a hot hob, and always keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob.
• Try to keep the oven, hob, cooker hood, extractor fan and grill clean – built up fat and grease can ignite and cause a fire.
• Use spark devices to light gas cookers – they are much safer than matches or lighters, as they don’t have a naked flame. They are safer around children, too.
• Double check the cooker and hob are turned off when you’ve finished cooking – if you're forgetful (or someone you care for can be), why not take a photo if you have a smartphone? The action will remind you to double check every time. 
• Check toasters are clean and not placed under kitchen cabinets or close to anything that can catch fire.
• Never put anything metal in the microwave.