Fire at shop with flats above - Finsbury Park

Firefighters are issuing a safety reminder about smoking after a fire at a shop with flats above on St. Thomas's Road in Finsbury Park.

A three-roomed flat on the third floor of the five-storey building was destroyed by fire. One adult man left the building before the arrival of the Brigade. Three further adults were led to safety from the building by firefighters.

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 2247 and the fire was under control by 0000 on 01 August. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Holloway, Stoke Newington and Islington 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.