Retail fire - Barking

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a fire at a retail and storage unit on Clockhouse Avenue in Barking. 

Firefighters tackled a small fire in a rear stairwell on the first floor of a two storey retail and storage unit. A mattress was destroyed. There were no injuries reported.

The fire is believed to have been 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 0930 and the fire was under control by 1014. Fire crews from Barking, East Ham and and Dagenham 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 arm chairs 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.