Balcony fire - Kensington

Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled a fire on the balcony of a sixth and seventh floor flat in Bayswater Road, Kensington in the early hours of this morning.

Part of the balcony was damaged by fire. Fortunately, there were no reports of any injuries. 

The Brigade was called at 0002 and the fire was under control by 0150. Crews from Kensington and Chelsea, Hammersmith, Soho and surrounding stations were at the scene. 

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was caused by a discarded cigarette which ignited compost in a plant pot.

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."

 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.