Firefighters are sharing their tips for charging devices safely after rescuing two people from a flat fire on Victoria Road in Kilburn.
Part of a four-roomed flat on the first floor of a converted end-of-terrace house was damaged by fire. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued a man from an adjacent flat via an internal staircase and another man from a window at the rear of the building using a short extension ladder. Another man was out of the building before the Brigade arrived. One man was treated on scene by London Ambulance Service crews.
The Brigade’s Fire Investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by the failure of a lithium-ion battery which was on charge in the kitchen.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Batteries can present a fire risk if they’re over-charged, short circuited, submerged in water or damaged, so it’s really important to protect them against being damaged and charge them safely.
"Unplug devices once they have finished charging and make sure you use the right charger for your device.
“This is also a reminder to get out, stay out, close the door behind you and call 999 as soon as you become aware of a fire inside your property.”
The Brigade was called at 0923 and the fire was under control by 1105. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from North Kensington and West Hampstead fire stations attended the scene.