Student accommodation fire - Walthamstow

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a flat fire on Blackhorse Lane in Walthamstow.

A second floor flat in a seven-storey student accommodation block was destroyed by the fire. Around 150 people left the building before firefighters arrived. There have been no reports of any injuries.

The road was closed and motorists were advised to avoid the area where possible.

The fire is believed to have been accidental caused by a fault within the extractor fan.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "We'd like to remind homeowners to ensure they don't have dirty ducting. If you don't clean the ducting in your extraction system regularly, you're at a greater risk of a fire. 

"You should also make sure you keep the hob, cooker hood and extractor fan clean too – built up fat and grease can ignite and cause a fire." 

The Brigade was called at 1457 and the fire was under control by 1610. Fire crews from Walthamstow, Tottenham and Leyton fire stations were in attendance.

Firefighters' top tips for restaurants and takeaways: 

• Have ducting in your extraction system (ventilation) cleaned regularly 
• Ensure ducting is installed correctly 
• Take extra care when cooking with hot oil as it can easily overheat and catch fire 
• Never fill the pan more than one third full of fat or oil 
• Make sure food is dry before putting it in hot oil - oil and water are a dangerous mix 
• Use an electronic deep fat fryer if possible - they have automatic temperature controls and are much safer 
• Ensure your electrical system is regularly tested 
• Complete your Fire Risk Assessment and make an emergency plan.