Flat fire - Woolwich

Firefighters have issued a reminder of their smoking safety advice following a fire at a block of flats on Masons Hill in Woolwich. 

Part of a first floor flat was damaged by the fire. One man was rescued from the building by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus and taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service. 

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the unsafe disposal of cigarettes. 

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.”

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 armchairs 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. 

Control Officers took the first of four calls at 2150 and mobilised crews from East Greenwich, Eltham and Lee Green fire stations to the scene. The incident was over for firefighters at 2247.