Flat fire - Plumstead

Firefighters have issued a reminder of their cooking safety advice following a fire at a house converted into flats on Lakedale Road in Plumstead.

A five-roomed flat on the first floor of the two-storey property was partially damaged by fire. One adult suffering smoke inhalation was treated on-scene by London Ambulance Service before being taken to hospital.

The fire is believed to be accidental and caused by hot oil on a gas hob.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Fires are more likely to start in the kitchen than any other room in the home.

"You can keep safe by following our simple cooking tips such as never placing anything that can catch fire near the hob. Keep all objects, like tea towels, cloths, plastic bowls and anything flammable well away from the cooker and always check the hob is turned off when you've finished cooking. If you do have to leave the room, turn off the heat and never leave cooking unattended.

"Attempting to extinguish a fire by yourself can lead to injuries or even be fatal and can increase the risk of more severe damage to your property. Leave the room, close the door, shout a warning to others and call 999."

The Brigade was called at 1952 and the fire was under control by 2028. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Deptford, Eltham, Lewisham and Lee Green fire stations attended the scene.

Practical steps for safer cooking:

• Take extra care when cooking with hot oil as it can easily overheat and catch fire.
• Never fill a pan more than one third full of fat or oil.
• Make sure food is dry before putting it in hot oil – oil and water are a dangerous mix.
• If the oil starts to smoke, it’s too hot. Turn off the heat and leave it to cool.
• Try not to leave cooking unattended on the hob or grill – if you have to leave the kitchen, turn off the heat.
• Not feeling 100%? Order a takeaway – if you're very tired, have been drinking alcohol or are taking medication that might make you drowsy, it's safer not to risk it.
• Be fabric aware – loose clothing can easily catch fire, so take care not to lean over a hot hob, and always keep tea towels and cloths away from the cooker and hob.