Care home fire – Goodmayes

Firefighters have issued a smoking safety reminder after rescuing a man from a fire at a care home on Abbotsford Road in Goodmayes.

Half of a flat on the first floor of the building was damaged by fire. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued a man via an internal staircase. He was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews. A further 13 residents were assisted to safety.

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 2153 and the fire was under control by 2313. Fire crews from Dagenham, Barking, Romford and Ilford 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.
• 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