Fire at student accommodation – High Holborn

Firefighters have issued a candle safety warning after a fire at a student accommodation block in High Holborn.

Part of a room on the eighth floor of the building was damaged by fire. Around 450 people left the building. There were no reports of any injuries.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by an unattended candle.

Station Officer Steve Duffy, who was at the scene, said: “When we arrived, the building was smoke logged and hundreds of people were outside. Thankfully, no one was hurt but the room was left uninhabitable and it could have been a lot worse.

“It’s really important to never leave candles unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture or clothes.

“Most student accommodation buildings prohibit using candles, so our best advice is to swap traditional candles for LED flameless ones as they are much safer, but if you do use real candles, follow our simple safety tips.”

The Brigade was called at 0230 and the fire was under control by 0258. Five fire engines and around 35 firefighters from Euston, Dowgate, Lambeth, Shoreditch and Islington fire stations attended the scene.

Candle safety tips

• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• These items should always be held firmly 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.