House fire - Harrow

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters responded to a fire on Welldon Crescent, Harrow. 

The first floor of a semi-detached house was completely destroyed by fire. Crews rescued one man from the property, leading him to safety using a fire escape hood, and he was assessed on scene by the London Ambulance Service. 

Fire escape hoods provide members of the public with up to 15 minutes protection from four of the main fire gases (carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen chloride and acrolein) and can be worn by conscious or unconscious people. If more than 15 minutes protection is required then another hood can be given to each wearer. They do not provide oxygen but temporarily filter toxic smoke to make breathing easier. 

The Brigade was called about the fire at 1033 and crews had the incident under control by 1149. Firefighters from Northolt, Wembley and Ruislip fire stations attended the scene.

The fire is believed to have been accidental, caused by an oil lamp in a religious shrine catching fire. 

How to use candles and incense safely 

• Never leave candles, incense sticks and oil burners unattended - this includes 'Diya lamps'' often used for worship and religious festivals.
• Make sure you put them out when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• Keep them in heat-resistant holders placed on a stable surface.
• Don't put them close to anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, papers, furniture, and clothes.
• To avoid accidents keep candles and all naked flames (including matches and lighters) out of the reach of children and pets.
• Tea lights get very