Firefighters rescued a woman from a flat fire on Goldsmith Road in Peckham.
Part of a five-roomed flat on the ground floor of the building was damaged by fire. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued a woman from the flat. She was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
The Brigade’s Fire Investigators believe the fire was caused by a naked flame being used to light a gas heater accidentally falling on to ignitable materials.
Old Kent Road Sub Officer Stuart West, who was at the scene, said: “On arrival we could see heavy smoke coming out from the windows of the flat.
“Crews quickly entered the building and rescued a woman who was in the living room of a ground floor flat, who was then taken to hospital.
“The fire is believed to have started when the resident attempted to light a portable gas heater and accidentally dropped a naked flame onto materials in the bathroom.
“If you use items like matches or lighters at home, be especially careful if you have a lot of flammable items, like books, magazines or papers.
“We’d also like to remind people who may be using portable heaters during the colder months to make sure that heaters are well maintained and in good working order. Don’t take risks with older heaters, if it’s showing signs of damage replace it with a new one or get it tested and repaired by a qualified technician. It’s also important to keep them far away from bedding, linen or furniture and position them where they won’t be knocked over.”
The Brigade was called at 1348 and the fire was under control by 1443. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from New Cross, Old Kent Road and Dockhead fire stations attended the scene.