Firefighters have issued a smoking safety reminder after a fire at a flat on Marine Street in Bermondsey.
A motorbike stored on an external balcony of the flat on the fifth floor of a six storey block was destroyed by the blaze. A small area of the balcony was damaged by smoke. There were no reported injuries.
The fire is believed to be accidental and fire investigators believe it was caused by a cigarette which fell from a balcony above and ignited a sheet covering the motorbike.
Sub Officer John Harris, who was at the scene, said: “On arrival, firefighters were faced with smoke issuing from the balcony and the motorbike was smouldering. They had to force entry into the flat to tackle the blaze.
"Under no circumstances should anyone keep any flammable material or combustibles on a balcony. Make sure any petrol vehicles are always stored outside and in a dedicated parking space. Petrol is highly combustible and should never be stored on a balcony.
“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.”
The Brigade was called at 2328 and the fire was under control by 2356. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Dockhead, Old Kent Road, Dowgate and Deptford fire stations attended the scene.