Flat fire - Surbiton

Firefighters have rescued a woman from a fire at a flat on South Bank in Surbiton. 

Part of a four-roomed flat on the first floor of the building was damaged by fire.

Station Commander Peter Clark said: "Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued a woman from the first floor of the building via an internal staircase. She was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews."

The Brigade's Fire Investigators believe the fire was caused by an unattended candle.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Candles are one of the most common causes of fire.

“It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from anything else that can easily catch fire.”

Firefighters' candle safety top tips

• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• Place candles, incense and oil burners 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 aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.
• Led candles can be a great alternative - they're safe even if you fall asleep or forget to blow them out. 

The Brigade was called at 1602 and the fire was under control by 1714. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Surbiton, Kingston and New Malden fire stations attended the scene.