Firefighters are warning smokers to always make sure they put out and dispose of their cigarettes carefully after a fire on Bronte Close in Forest Gate.
Part of the ground and first floor of a mid terraced house were damaged by fire. Half of the roof was also damaged and a shed at the rear of the property was destroyed. Four people left the building before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.
The Brigade's Fire Investigators believe the fire was caused by the unsafe disposal of cigarettes.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “If you smoke it is vitally important you stub your cigarette right out, preferably in an ashtray.
“Always ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it. If you don’t, you risk causing a fire.”
Firefighters' smoking safety tips
- It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
- Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on arm chairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.
- Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
- Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.
- Don't balance cigars or cigarettes on the edge of an ashtray, or anything else – they can tip and fall as they burn away and cause a fire.
- Don’t leave lit pipes or cigarettes unattended.
- Always empty ashtrays carefully. Make sure smoking materials are out, cold and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin – never use a wastepaper basket.
- Keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach, and buy child resistant lighters.
- Never smoke if you use healthcare equipment like medical oxygen or an air flow pressure relief mattress. If you use paraffin-based emollient creams, ask for non-flammable alternatives instead.
- Consider additional safety measures such as fire retardant bedding or nightwear.
The Brigade was called at 0034 and the fire was under control by 0225. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Leytonstone, Stratford, East Ham and Ilford fire stations attended the scene.
