Flat fire – Chelsea

Firefighters are sharing their advice for using portable heaters safely after a man was rescued from a flat fire on Ashburnham Road in Chelsea.

Part of a five-roomed flat on the fifth floor of the building was damaged by fire. Firefighters rescued a man from the flat who was treated on scene after suffering from smoke inhalation.

The fire is believed to have started after a pillow, which was up against an electric heater, ignited.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Fires involving heaters like this are all too common. They usually start when items, like clothes or bedding, are placed too close to the heater and ignite.

“It’s absolutely vital that heaters are kept well away from curtains, bedding or furniture and are never used to dry clothes.

“It's also important to always sit at least a metre away from the heater, as it could set fire to your clothes or your chair, and position them where they won’t be knocked over."

Firefighters’ tips for using portable heaters safely

• Make sure heaters are well maintained and in good working order.
• Check that your heater isn't on a recall list.
• Never install, repair or service appliances yourself. Make sure anyone who does is a registered professional.
• Don't take risks with old heaters – if it's sparking, wires are loose or if it’s showing signs of damage, replace it with a new one or get it tested and repaired by a qualified electrician.
• Keep heaters well away from clothes, curtains and furniture and never use them for drying clothes.
• Always sit at least one metre away from a heater as it could set light to your clothes or chair.
• Before attempting to move your heater, turn it off and allow it to cool first.

The Brigade was called at 1303 and the fire was under control by 1322. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from Fulham, Battersea and Kensington fire stations attended the scene.