Firefighters are issuing a smoking safety reminder following a fire on Comber Grove in Camberwell.
Part of a five-roomed flat on the second floor was damaged by the fire. One woman was rescued via a ladder by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus. She was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews suffering from smoke inhalation. Another woman left the building before the arrival of the Brigade. Two cats were also rescued by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus.
The Brigade’s 999 control officers gave vital fire survival guidance to a member of the public before firefighters arrived.
The fire is being treated as accidental and is believed to have been caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials - most likely a cigarette.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "If you're 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.
“Firefighters recommend that you have a look at our online Home Fire Safety Checker to make sure there are no hidden hazards in your home.
“The online tool will ask you a series of questions that will help us work out the level of risk in your home, or the home of someone you care for. It only takes a few minutes to get tailored advice to keep yourself and loved ones safe from fire.”
The Brigade was called at 0756 and the fire was under control by 0918. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Peckham, Brixton and Old Kent Road fire stations attended the scene.