Flat fire - Catford

Firefighters are warning smokers to make sure that cigarettes are put out and disposed of carefully after a fire at a flat above a shop on Sandhurst Road in Catford.

Part of a four-roomed flat on the second floor was damaged by fire. Four men left the building before the Brigade arrived. One further man was assessed on scene by London Ambulance Service crews.

The Brigade’s Fire Investigators believe the fire was caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “We’d rather you didn’t smoke at all, but if you are 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.”

Safety advice for smokers:

• It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
• Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on arm chairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.
• Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
• Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.
• 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.

The Brigade was called at 1817 and the fire was under control by 1857. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Lewisham, Forest Hill, Lee Green and Greenwich fire stations attended the scene.