House fire - Woolwich

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters attended a fire at a terraced house converted into flats on Herbert Road in Woolwich.

Part of a ground floor flat was damaged by the fire. Four people left the property before the arrival of the Brigade. There were no injuries reported.

The Brigade’s Fire Investigators believe the fire was accidental and was caused by an unattended candle left on a TV stand.

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 curtains and anything else that can easily catch fire.

“You should also ensure they are in a heat-resistant holder and placed on a stable surface so they won’t be knocked over.”

The Brigade was called at 1959 and the fire was under control by 2157. Fire crews from Plumstead, Eltham and East Greenwich fire stations attended the scene.

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. 

• 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.  

• Be aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath. 

• To avoid accidents keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets. 
• LED candles can be a great alternative – they're safe even if you fall asleep or forget to blow them out