Firefighters use fire escape hood to rescue woman from Euston flat fire

Firefighters used a fire escape hood to rescue a woman from a fire at a flat in Doric Way, Euston.

The occupant of the property called the Brigade after discovering the fire next to a chair in the living room. She was unable to leave the property and the Brigade's 999 control officers gave vital fire survival guidance until crews arrived.

Firefighters used a fire escape hood to lead the resident to safety before she was taken to hospital for treatment for slight smoke inhalation.

Fire escape hoods provide members of the public with up to 15 minutes protection from four of the main fire gases (carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen chloride and acrolein) and can be worn by conscious or unconscious people. If more than 15 minutes protection is required then another hood can be given to each wearer. They do not provide oxygen but temporarily filter toxic smoke to make breathing easier. 

Part of the living room of the property was damaged by fire. 

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials. 

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson 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.”

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 0301 and the fire was under control at 0403. Fire crews from Euston, Soho and Kentish Town fire stations attended the scene.