Firefighters have issued a reminder of their electrical safety advice following a church fire on East Surrey Grove in Southwark.
The ground floor and lower ground floor of the three-storey church were partially damaged by fire. Around 25 people left the building before the arrival of the Brigade, and a further seven people were led to safety by firefighters from the lower ground floor. There are no reports of any injuries.
The fire is believed to be accidental and caused by an electrical event.
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 was called at 1507 and the fire was under control by 1636. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Peckham, Old Kent Road, Brixton and Dockhead fire stations attended the scene.