Firefighters have issued a warning about using incense sticks after a fire at a block of flats in Lambeth Road, Southwark.
Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters attended the incident. Part of a first floor flat was damaged by fire. Around 20 people left the building before the arrival of the Brigade. There were no reports of any injuries.
The cause of the fire is believed to be an incense stick which had been left unattended.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Candles, incense sticks and oil burners are one of the most common causes of fire. It is 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 advise to place these in a suitable fire resistant candleholder which won’t be knocked over, and make sure you put them out entirely when you leave the room and especially before bed.”
The Brigade was called at 1421 and the fire was under control 1515. Fire crews from Dowgate and Clapham fire stations attended.