Fire at shop with flats above - Chadwell Heath

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a fire at a shop with flats above on High Road in Chadwell Heath. 

Most of a flat on the first floor of the two-storey building was damaged by the fire. There were no reports of any injuries.

The Brigade's 999 Control Officers took 14 calls to the fire.

The Brigade was called at 0943 and the fire was under control by 1047. Fire crews from Ilford, Hornchurch and Dagenham fire stations were at the scene.

The fire is believed to have involved candles or incense sticks.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Candles are one of the most common causes of fires in the home. It’s important that you never leave them unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture or clothes.

"We’d recommend swapping traditional candles for safer flameless LED alternatives, but if you do use real candles, always make sure that they’re held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over.”

Firefighters' top candle and incense safety 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 place them on a stable surface where they won't be knocked over.
• Keep them away from materials that might catch fire - things like curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.
• Make sure they are out and cold before disposing of them or putting them away.