Last updated: 05/02/2021, 3:12 PM

Fire Investigators issue candle warning following fires in Maida Hill and Tottenham

03/02/2021 07:57
London-wide
House or flat fire
)

Fire investigators have issued a candle safety warning after attending two similar incidents in the capital.

Firefighters were called to a blaze at a house converted into flats on Woodside Gardens in Tottenham and to a similar fire at a house on Drayford Close in Maida Hill two days before.

The Brigade’s fire investigators believe both fires were caused by unattended candles.

Half of a ground floor flat was damaged in the Tottenham fire and two people were treated on scene for smoke inhalation.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Both of these are believed to have started after the residents used candles and didn’t check that they were completely out.

“Candles, incense sticks and oil burners are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave them unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture or clothes.

"These items should always be held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over, and make sure you put them out entirely when you leave the room and especially before bed.

“There were also no working smoke alarms in either of these properties, so this is also a timely reminder to make sure you smoke alarms fitted in your home.

“Having working smoke alarms is so important in helping to detect fires and save lives. They can provide time to escape.

“As a minimum you should have smoke alarms on every floor - in the hallways and the rooms you use the most, plus a heat alarm in the kitchen. They should be tested regularly."

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.
  • Place candles, incense and oil burners 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 aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.
  • Led candles can be a great alternative - they're safe even if you fall asleep or forget to blow them out.

The Brigade was called at 0757 to the fire in Tottenham on 3 February. The blaze was under control by 0839. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from Tottenham and Stoke Newington fire stations attended the scene.

The Brigade was called at 1458 to the fire in Maida Hill on 1 February. The blaze was under control by 1520. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from North Kensington and Paddington fire stations attended the scene.

You may also be interested in...