Garage fire - Harlesden

Firefighters are issuing a safety reminder about smoking after a garage fire on Greenhill Park in Harlesden.

Half of a single-storey double garage was damaged by fire. There were no injuries.

Three cylinders in the garage were removed and cooled to an ambient temperature as a precaution, as some cylinders can explode when exposed to heat.  

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 was called at 2307 and the fire was under control by 0052. Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters from Park Royal, Wembley, Willesden 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.