Balcony fire - Stratford

Firefighters have issued a smoking safety reminder after a fire on the balcony of a flat in Glasshouse Gardens, Stratford.

The Brigade’s fire investigators believe the cause of the fire was the unsafe disposal of a cigarette igniting rubbish under the decking of a balcony.

Watch Manager Jon Laver, who was at the scene, said: “If you're a smoker it’s absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it.

“If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life. Thankfully, in this instance, there were no reports of any injuries.”

Part of the balcony of a 19th floor flat was damaged by fire.

London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Around 200 people left before the arrival of the Brigade as the stay put advice had been temporarily suspended in the building due to changes to fire safety provisions.

"One of the interim control measures was for a temporary simultaneous evacuation strategy. This is a procedure in which all or parts of a building are evacuated in the event of the fire at one time.

"Residents were aware of this change and there was also a waking watch in place to help people evacuate."

Safety advice for smokers:

• Make sure you have smoke alarms fitted in every room you regularly use in your home including in the hallways.
• Never smoke in bed.
• Always ensure you stub out cigarettes properly and dispose of them carefully.
• Keep matches and lighters out of children's reach.
• Never leave lit cigarettes or cigars unattended.
• Empty ashtrays carefully, ensuring all smoking materials are stubbed out and cold.
• If you must smoke, do it outdoors.

The Brigade was called at 0043 and the fire was under control at 0135. Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters from Stratford, Leytonstone, Leyton, Poplar and surrounding areas fire stations attended the scene.