Flat fire - Bow

Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters tackled a flat fire on Chiltern Road in Bow.

Half of a flat on the ninth floor was damaged by fire. The Brigade’s 999 Control took 22 calls to the visible blaze.

Around 50 people self-evacuated the 19 storey block before the Brigade arrived. A number of other residents remained safely in their unaffected flats. One woman was assessed on scene by London Ambulance Service crews.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials. 

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "We'd rather you didn't smoke at all, but if you are 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 properties but also cost you your life."

The Brigade was called 2233 and the fire was under control by 2349. Fire crews from Stratford and surrounding fire stations were at the scene. 

Firefighters' smoking safety tips

• Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.
• Don’t leave lit pipes or cigarettes unattended.
• It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
• Don't balance cigars or cigarettes on the edge of an ashtray, or anything else – they can tip and fall as they burn away and cause a fire.
• Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
• Always empty ashtrays carefully. Make sure smoking materials are out, cold and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin – never use a wastepaper basket.