Firefighters were called to a fire at a hostel on Masbro Road in Hammersmith.
Part of the bedroom of a one room flat on the third floor of the building was damaged by fire. There were no reports of any injuries.
The Brigade’s Fire Investigators believe the fire was caused by the unsafe disposal of smouldering materials, most likely an incense candle or a cigarette.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “"Fires caused by candles and smoking materials are among the most common types of fire.
“Stub cigarettes out properly and always dispose of them carefully. Make sure smoking materials are cold before emptying ashtrays and preferably wet stubs before throwing them into a bin.
“Candles should never be left unattended and make sure you keep them away from anything that can easily catch fire, like curtains.”
Firefighters’ smoking safety advice and top tips for candle use
- It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
- Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.
- 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.
- Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
- Candles and incense burners should always be held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over and away from materials that might catch fire.
- Be aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.
- Swap your wax candles for 'flameless' candles, which are much safer.
- To avoid accidents, keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets.
- Consider additional safety measures such as fire retardant bedding or nightwear.
The Brigade was called at 2118 and the fire was under control by 2205. Fire crews from Hammersmith fire station attended the scene.
