Maisonette fire - Forest Gate

Firefighters are warning smokers to dispose of smoking materials carefully after a fire a residential block of flats on Forest Street in Forest Gate.

A two-bedroom ground floor maisonette was partially destroyed by fire. One adult woman evacuated the building before the Brigade arrived and was assessed by London Ambulance Services.

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're a smoker, it’s absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it. If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life.

“Firefighters recommend that you have a look at our online Home Fire Safety Checker to make sure there are no hidden hazards in your home.

“The online tool will ask you a series of questions that will help us work out the level of risk in your home, or the home of someone you care for. It only takes a few minutes to get tailored advice to keep yourself and loved ones safe from fire.”

The Brigade was called at 1401 and the fire was under control by 1503. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Leytonstone, Leyton, Plaistow and East Ham 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.