Last updated: 22/08/2024, 1:03 PM

House fire - Tottenham

21/08/2024 18:54
Haringey
House or flat fire
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Firefighters have issued a reminder of their electrical safety advice following a house fire on Durban Road in Tottenham.

Half of the first floor and parts of the loft space of the two-storey building were damaged by fire. Three people suffering smoke inhalation left the property before the arrival of the Brigade and were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service.

The fire is believed to be accidental and caused by an electrical item.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Overloaded sockets are one of the most common causes of electrical fires. Some electrical appliances use more power than others, so be mindful not to overload extension leads and always check that you’re using the right fuse for the plug.

“Power-hungry appliances such as kettles, toasters and microwaves, shouldn’t be on the same extension. It’s also important to fully unwind drum extension leads. If you leave them coiled, they can overheat and cause a fire.”

The Brigade's 999 Control Officers took over ten calls to the blaze. The Brigade was first called at 1854 and the fire was under control by 1951. Crews from Tottenham, Edmonton and Soho fire stations attended the scene.

Firefighters’ top tips for electrical device safety

  • Try to keep to one plug per socket, especially for high powered appliances like washing machines.
  • Always check that you’re using the right fuse.
  • Be lead safety savvy – cable drum extension leads should always be completely unwound to avoid overheating, and be careful not to overload extension leads.
  • Always make sure electrical appliances have a British or European safety mark when you buy them.
  • Keep electrical appliances clean and in good working order.
  • Don't buy cheap counterfeit chargers for items that use lithium batteries, and never leave phones or laptops plugged in to charge overnight.

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