Flat fire - Greenwich

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters responded to a fire on Thornham Street in Greenwich. 

The fire took place fire in a residential block. The first and second floors in a maisonette were destroyed by fire. Two people were treated by the London Ambulance Service for smoke inhalation.

The Brigade was first called at 1408 and has received over 20 calls reporting the fire. Crews from Greenwich, East Greenwich, Lewisham and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.  

This fire is believed to have been accidental, caused by the ignition of hot oil within a cooking pan.

Cooking with oil

We still see a substantial number of kitchen fires involving deep frying with oil or fat. However, it is possible reduce the fire risks of deep fat frying: 

• Take extra care when cooking with hot oil as it can easily overheat and catch fire.
• Never fill a 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.
• If the oil starts to smoke, it’s too hot. Turn off the heat and leave it to cool.
• Use an electronic deep fat fryer if possible – they have automatic temperature controls, and are much safer.

If a fire does start when you're cooking with oil, get out the property and call 999. Don't attempt to tackle the fire yourself.