House fire - Brixton

Firefighters are reminding people to ensure candles are not left unattended and are placed in appropriate holders after a fire at a house in Branksome Road in Brixton. 

Half of the ground floor of the property was damaged by fire. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued one man from the ground floor and one woman from the first floor of the property. They were both assessed at the scene by London Ambulance Service crews and the man was taken to hospital. 

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was caused by a candle being knocked over and igniting clothing.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Candles are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from anything else that can easily catch fire.”

Top candle safety tips

• Keep candles/tea lights away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can catch fire. Keep loose clothing and hair away from candles/tea lights when they are lit. 
• Always place your candles/tea lights in a suitable fire resistant candle holder. 
• Make sure the candle holder holds the candle/tea light firmly and is on a flat and stable surface to stop it falling over.

The Brigade was called at 2201 and the fire was under control at 2300. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Brixton, Clapham and Battersea fire stations attended the scene.