Flat fire - Blackwall

Firefighters are issuing a safety reminder about smoking after a flat fire in a high rise building on Biscayne Avenue in Blackwall.

A balcony was destroyed and a small part of a five-roomed flat on the 25th floor of the 45-storey building was damaged by fire. There were no reports of any injuries.

One of the Brigade’s 64 metre turntable ladders was deployed as an observation tower to support firefighters as they carried out their response.

The fire is being treated as accidental and is believed to have been caused by 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."

The Brigade's 999 Control Officers took over 110 calls to the blaze. The Brigade was first called at 1328 and the fire was under control by 1450. Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters tackled from Millwall, Plaistow, Shadwell and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

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.