Leisure complex fire – Leicester Square

Firefighters have issued a warning to smokers after a fire at a leisure complex on Coventry Street in Leicester Square.

Part of the fascia of a club entrance on the ground floor of a four-storey building was damaged by fire. There were no reports of any injuries.

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 at 1103 and the fire was under control by 1208. Fire crews from Soho, Euston, Lambeth and Dowgate fire stations attended 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.