Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were called to a flat fire on Galleywall Road in Southwark.
A four-roomed flat on the fourth floor of a residential block was destroyed by fire. A man, a woman and a teenager left the building before the Brigade arrived. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued a man, a woman and two children using fire escape hoods from a flat on the fifth floor. Two men, two women and three children were assessed on scene by London Ambulance Service crews.
Fire escape hoods provide members of the public with up to 15 minutes protection from four of the main fire gases (carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen chloride and acrolein) and can be worn by conscious or unconscious people. If more than 15 minutes protection is required then another hood can be given to each wearer. They do not provide oxygen but temporarily filter toxic smoke to make breathing easier.
The Brigade's Fire Investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by an unattended incense stick left on a window sill which set alight to the curtains.
A London Fire Brigade spokespersons said: "Incense sticks, candles and oil burners are one of the most common causes of fire within homes. It’s really important that you never leave these items unattended.
"Make sure you place incense sticks in a suitable, fire-resistant holder and keep them away from curtains and anything else that can easily catch fire. Remember to put them out entirely when you leave the room and especially before bed.”
The Brigade was called at 0536 and the fire was under control by 0611. Fire crews from Deptford, Old Kent Road, Dockhead, New Cross and Peckham fire stations attended the scene.