Flat fire - Elephant and Castle

Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters were called to a flat fire on Deacon Street in Elephant and Castle. 

Part of a four-roomed flat on the 18th floor of the building was damaged by fire. There were no reports of any injuries.

Station Commander Dave Hill, who was at the scene, said: "Firefighters worked incredibly hard to bring the fire in Elephant and Castle under control.

"Crews evacuated residents on three floors of the building who were affected by smoke.

"The Brigade's drone team assisted by providing an aerial view of the incident. 

"Road closures were in place causing heavy congestion. Firefighters remained on scene throughout the afternoon and we encouraged people to avoid the area."

The fire is believed to have been caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

Safety advice for smokers

• It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
• Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on armchairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.
• Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.
• Always empty ashtrays carefully. Make sure smoking materials are out, cold and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin – never use a wastepaper basket.

The Brigade was called at 1058 and the fire was under control by 1215. Fire crews from Lambeth, Dockhead, Dowgate, Brixton and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.