House fire - Poplar

The unsafe disposal of smoking materials is believed to have caused a blaze at a house in Carmen Street, Poplar.  

Fifty percent of the first floor was damaged by fire. Six people left the building before the Brigade arrived and there were no reports of any injuries.

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 1739 and the fire was under control by 1823. Fire crews from Poplar, Millwall, Shadwell and Plaistow fire stations attended the incident.