Flat fire - Chadwell Heath

Firefighters have issued a smoking safety reminder following a flat fire on Somerville Road in Chadwell Heath.

A first floor flat was destroyed by the blaze. Firefighters rescued a man and a woman from the first floor via a ladder. Another man left the building before the Brigade arrived. One person was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews as a precaution.

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by the unsafe disposal of 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 1326 and the fire was under control by 1419. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from Dagenham and Ilford fire stations were at 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.
• Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
• 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.