Firefighters have issued a candle safety warning after a house fire on Wolsey Crescent in New Addington.
Half of the first-floor bedroom of a semi-detached house was damaged by fire. Two men and two women left the building before the Brigade arrived. One man was assessed on scene for smoke inhalation.
The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by an unattended candle too close to combustible items.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "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.
“This incident is also a reminder of just how important it is to have working smoke alarms in your home. There were no working smoke alarms fitted in the property.
“Smoke alarms give the earliest possible warning when a fire starts. We encourage everyone to have smoke alarms fitted in every room where a fire could start, plus a heat alarm in the kitchen. It's important to test them regularly.”
The Brigade was called at 2046 and the fire was under control by 2142. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Addington, Biggin Hill and Croydon fire stations attended the scene.