A stray firework is believed to have caused a fire on two balconies at a residential block of flats on Barclay Close in Fulham.
The external-facing balcony of a flat on the fourth floor of the five-storey block was destroyed by fire. A small area of the external balcony of the flat underneath it on the third floor was damaged by fire.
The occupant of the fourth floor flat called the Brigade when they noticed flickering light through their bedroom window. They then attempted to extinguish the fire by throwing water on it, but left the property before the Brigade arrived as thick black smoke began to issue from the fire.
London Fire Brigade’s fire investigation team found that the cause was accidental. A live firework is believed to have landed on the fourth-floor balcony.
Fire crews used a jet hose from ground level to bring the fire on the fourth floor balcony under control. Then firefighters entered the property and extinguished the fire.
Firefighters assisted the occupant of the third floor flat to safety and quickly extinguished the fire on their balcony. This was caused by fire from the fourth floor balcony dropping down.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Due to the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, we discourage private fireworks displays.
“However, if you are using fireworks for a private display, always use them well away from buildings, including open external-facing balconies, sheds, fences and hedges. The same guidance applies if you are building a bonfire.”
The Brigade was called at 0046 and the fire was under control by 0118. Fire crews from Fulham, Chelsea and Hammersmith attended the scene.