Maisonette fire - Plaistow

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a maisonette fire on North Street in Plaistow.

Half of a four-roomed maisonette on the first floor of the building was damaged by fire. Three men and a woman left the building before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by smoking materials.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "We'd rather you didn't smoke at all, but if you are a smoker it's absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you've finished smoking it.

"If you don't, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home but also cost you your life."

The Brigade was called at 1735 and the fire was under control by 1842. Fire crews from Plaistow, Poplar, Stratford and Leytonstone fire stations attended the scene.

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.