House fire – Stamford Hill

Firefighters have issued a candle warning after rescuing two children from a house fire on Castlewood Road in Stamford Hill.

Part of the ground floor of a mid-terraced house was damaged by fire. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued two children from the loft conversion of the house who were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and involved candles.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "We’d recommend swapping traditional candles for safer flameless LED alternatives, but if you do use real candles, it’s so important to never leave them unattended.

“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.”

The Brigade was called at 2232 and the fire was under control by 2338. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from Stoke Newington, Holloway and Homerton fire stations attended the scene.

Firefighters’ candle safety tips

• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• 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
• To avoid accidents keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets