Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters dealt with a flat fire on St German’s Road in Forest Hill.
The ground floor flat was badly damaged by fire.
London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:
“The occupier is believed to be in one of the neighbouring flats at the time of the fire. Around 12 people evacuated from the building before the Brigade arrived. The fire is believed to originate from the tumble dryer and will be subjected to further tests.
“It is believed that the residents tried to use wet towels to tackle the fire in the early stages. We’d kindly remind people to not try to fight fires but to leave it to the professionals. If there is a fire in your home, get out, close the door behind you, stay out and call 999.”
The Brigade was called at 1704 and fire was under control by 1759. Fire crews from Lewisham, Greenwich, Lee Green and Deptford fire stations were at the scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation.