Firefighters are reminding people to check kitchen appliances after a flat fire on Ivy Road in Brent.
Part of a kitchen on the ground floor of a mid-terraced house converted into flats was damaged by fire. Seven residents left the building before the Brigade arrived. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus led four further people to safety. Two people were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews after suffering from smoke inhalation.
The fire was discovered by one of the residents after they heard a loud bang in the kitchen. They alerted the other residents before attempting to extinguish the fire.
The Brigade’s Fire Investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by a fault in a fridge-freezer.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Nearly one fire a day in London involves white goods and our advice is to always make sure you’re aware of white goods safety and to check your appliances.
“If your white goods start making a strange noise, don’t ignore it. If you think there’s a problem always unplug it and contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.
“Most fires where white goods are the source of ignition are not down to anything you have done – so always make sure you register your appliances as you’ll be informed if any issues are identified with the product you’ve bought.
“You should also always keep your white goods in a safe place out of the way, as if a fire does break out you will need clear escape routes. This is also a reminder to never try to tackle a fire yourself. Leave it to the professionals and call 999 as soon as you become aware of a fire in your home.
The Brigade was called at 0138 and the fire was under control by 0205.Two fire engines and around ten firefighters from Willesden and West Hampstead fire stations attended the scene.