Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were called to a house fire on Elgin Road in Croydon.
Part of the ground floor of a converted semi-detached house was damaged by fire. Five people left the building before the Brigade arrived. A man was treated on scene by London Ambulance Service crews and a woman was taken to hospital.
Sub Officer Shelley Ovenden, who was at the scene, said: “On arrival, the fire wasn’t very visible, but as initial crews wearing breathing apparatus entered the property, they were faced with a fully developed fire and heavy smoke came out of the building.
“Firefighters worked incredibly quickly to contain the fire to just one room and the hallway, saving neighbouring properties. Crews also led a woman to the front of the property who was in a rear garden.”
The Brigade was called at 0309 and the fire was under control by 0406. Fire crews from Woodside, Croydon, Beckenham and Norbury fire stations attended the scene.
The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was caused by a candle igniting nearby combustible items.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Candles are one of the most common causes of fires in the home and you should be careful when using them.
“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.
"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."
Candle safety tips