Flat fire – Euston

Firefighters are sharing their tips for using incense sticks and candles safely after a fire at a flat on Cumberland Market in Euston.

Part of a five-roomed flat on the third floor of the building was damaged by fire. Firefighters rescued one woman and one man who were treated on scene by London Ambulance Service crews.

The Brigade’s Fire Investigators believe the fire was caused by an incense stick.

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

"We advise to place these in a suitable fire resistant candleholder which won’t be knocked over, and make sure you put them out entirely when you leave the room.”

Firefighters’ top tips for using incense safely

• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• These items should always be held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over.
• Keep them away from materials that might catch fire – that's things like curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.
• Be especially careful if you have a lot of flammable items in your home, like collections of books, magazines or papers.
• To avoid accidents keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets.

The Brigade was called at 1215 and the fire was under control by 1238. Fire crews from Euston, Kentish Town, Soho, Paddington and Islington fire stations attended the scene.