Firefighters have issued a candle safety warning following a maisonette fire on Carlton Grove in Peckham.
Half of the first floor of a maisonette was damaged by the fire. Two men left the property before the Brigade arrived. One man was treated on scene for smoke inhalation and taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
The Brigade's Fire Investigation team believe the fire was accidental and caused by an unattended candle.
Sub Officer Phil Davies, who was at the scene, said: "When firefighters arrived most of the front of the first floor of the property was alight.
"Crews worked hard to prevent the fire spreading to any of the neighbouring properties.
"The occupants were alerted to the blaze by smoke alarms and the early warning allowed them to get out safely and call 999.
"This incident is another reminder about the importance of having smoke alarms fitted in your home. You should have working smoke alarms in every room where a fire can start, plus a heat alarm in the kitchen and the bathroom. They should be tested regularly.
"It's also important to follow our safety advice about candles. Candles, incense sticks and oil burners are one of the most common causes of fire. We’d recommend swapping traditional candles for safer flameless LED alternatives, but if you do use real candles, it’s so important to never leave them unattended.
“Always make sure that they’re held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over.”
The Brigade was called at 0158 and the fire was under control by 0319. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from New Cross, Peckham and Old Kent Road fire stations were at the scene.
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