Flat fire - Thornton Heath

Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters were called to a flat fire on London Road in Thornton Heath.

The whole of three roomed flat on the second floor flat in a six storey block was destroyed by fire. Half of the corridor on the second floor was also damaged by the blaze. 

Ten people evacuated before the arrival of the Brigade.

Fire crews wearing breathing apparatus rescued two women and one child using fire escape hoods. Fire escape hoods provide members of the public with up to 15 minutes protection from four of the main fire gases (carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen chloride and acrolein). They were assessed on scene for smoke inhalation by London Ambulance Service and taken to hospital. 

The Brigade was called at 13.00 and was under control by 1503. Fire crews from Norbury, Croydon, West Norwood, Woodside, Mitcham and Wallington fire stations were at the scene.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by a tea light that was too close to combustible materials. 

Firefighters’ candle safety tips

• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• Place candles, incense and oil burners in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won't be knocked over.
• Keep them away from materials that might catch fire - that's things like curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.
• Be aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.
• LED candles can be a great alternative - they're safe even if you fall asleep or forget to blow them out.