Flat fire - Bromley

Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters tackled a fire at a block of flats on St Mark's Square in Bromley. 

Part of a flat on the 10th floor and half of another flat on the 11th floor were damaged by fire. Two people were treated on scene by London Ambulance Service crews and taken to hospital.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “The Brigade worked closely with emergency service colleagues to ensure the safety of residents and we're pleased to confirm no members of the public sustained any injuries. We also worked alongside Bromley Council to set up a rest centre for residents temporarily displaced and to pick up items including clothing and medication.

“I’d like to reassure residents that the Brigade will be in the community offering support and advice where needed, including promoting our Home Fire Safety Checker.

“A post-fire safety audit has also been scheduled to take place next week at the building affected by the local area safety team.”

Control Officers took the first of more than 20 calls at 0952 and the fire was under control by 1155. Crews from Bromley, Beckenham, Woodside and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

The fire is believed to have been accidental, caused by an electrical event occurring in an extension lead that was being used on a balcony.

Using extension leads safely

• Some appliances use more power than others, so be mindful of not overloading your extension leads. Power-hungry appliances such as kettles, toasters and microwaves shouldn't be on the same extension. 
• Always use a fused ‘inline’ type – not the plug-in cube type – but be really careful not to overload it. This is all too easy if you add extra adaptors/extensions, or appliances that use lots of power like kettles, tumble dryers or heaters.
• It's also important to fully unwind drum extensions leads. If you leave them coiled, they can overheat and cause a fire.