Hotel fire - Croydon

Firefighters have issued a candle safety warning after a fire at a hotel on Park Lane in Croydon.

A small part of a first-floor room in a three-storey hotel was destroyed by the fire. Around twenty people evacuated the hotel before the Brigade arrived. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued four people from the second floor via an internal staircase using smoke hoods and were treated on scene by London Ambulance Service crews.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by candles.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “It’s really important you never leave candles unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture or clothes.

"We recommend swapping 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 2354 and the fire was under control by 0046. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Croydon, Woodside, Purley and Norbury 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.
• To avoid accidents keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets.