Flat fire - Erith

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a flat fire on Kale Road in Erith.

Part of a three roomed flat on the sixth floor of a block of flats was destroyed by fire. One man left the affected flat before the Brigade arrived, approximately 50 people also evacuated the building. The cause of the fire is accidental and due to the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "If you smoke it is vitally important you stub it right out, preferably in an ashtray.

"Always ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it. If you don’t, you risk causing a fire as you don’t know what it may land on which could potentially start a fire."

This was a very visible fire. The Brigade's 999 Control staff received 30 calls alerting them to the blaze. Thankfully no injuries are reported.

The Brigade was called at 1331 and the incident was under control by 1413. Fire crews from Plumstead, Erith, Bexley and East Greenwich fire stations were in attendance.

Smoking safety top tips

• It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
• Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on arm chairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.
• Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
• Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.