House fire - Barking

Firefighters are warning never to leave candles unattended after a house fire on Cranleigh Gardens in Barking.

Part of the first floor of a terraced house was damaged by fire. Five people left the building before the Brigade arrived and one woman was treated on scene by London Ambulance Service crews.

The fire was discovered by a resident who could smell burning and on investigation found the bedroom full of smoke. They attempted to tackle the fire themselves before leaving the property.

Crews found that there were no working smoke alarms installed inside the property so fitted some before they left.

The Brigade’s Fire Investigators believe the fire was caused by an unattended candle.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Candles, incense sticks and oil burners are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave them unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture or clothes.

“There were also no working smoke alarms in the property. Smoke alarms give the earliest possible warning to fire, providing time to escape. You should have smoke alarms in every room where a fire could start, plus a heat alarm in the kitchen.

“This is also a reminder to never try to tackle a fire yourself. Leave it to the professionals and call 999 as soon as you become aware of a fire in your home.”

Firefighters' candle safety top tips

• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• Place candles, incense and oil burners 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 aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.
• Led candles can be a great alternative - they're safe even if you fall asleep or forget to blow them out.

The Brigade was called at 2249 and the fire was under control by 2327. Two fire engines and around 10 firefighters from Barking Fire Station attended the scene.