Flat fire - Willesden Green

Firefighters have issued a candle safety reminder after a flat fire on Griffin Close in Willesden Green.

Part of a flat on the first floor of a three-storey block was damaged by the fire. Around 20 people left the building before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was caused by a candle which caught light to curtains.

Willesden Fire Station Sub Officer Rachel Spread, who was at the scene, said: "There was very heavy smoke-logging in the property when crews arrived.

"The fire was caused by a candle which had been put on a windowsill and caught light to a pair of curtains which were blowing in the wind as the window was open. 

"Candles are one of the most common causes of fires in the home and you should be careful when using them.

"We recommend swapping traditional candles for LED flameless ones as they are much safer, but if you do use real candles, follow our simple safety tips." 

The Brigade was called at 0757 and the fire was under control by 0940. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from West Hampstead and North Kensington fire stations were at the scene.

Candle safety tips

• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• These items should always be held firmly 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 especially careful if you have a lot of flammable items in your home, like collections of books, magazines or papers.
• 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.