London Fire Brigade and Metropolitan Police Service are reminding people about firework safety following a fire at a secondary school on South Street in Enfield.
Part of the external fascia on the first and second floor of the building was damaged by the fire. Twenty six members of staff left the building before the Brigade arrived. Thankfully, there were no reports of any injuries.
The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by a group of young people playing with fireworks.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police Service said: “On investigation, the fire was caused by what appears to have been a group of young people playing with fireworks and firing them at the school. This investigation is ongoing and has been captured on CCTV. Police will be conducting reassurance patrols and visiting the school.
“This incident highlights the clear dangers of fireworks and how quickly situations can escalate from their misuse. There will be additional officers on patrols in the evening around Halloween and Fireworks night and robustly dealing with any misuse or underage possession or selling of fireworks.
“The police will also be working with the London Fire Brigade and local schools and partners to highlight the dangers of fireworks across this peak period.
“If you have any information that could assist police then please contact us on 101 stating CAD 5812/23OCT24 or you can call Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 to remain anonymous.
In addition we have created an email address for you to feedback to us if you are aware of any tensions or concerns relating to this or any other incident: NAmailbox-.Communityfeedback@met.police.uk”
Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Craig Carter, said: “Our advice has always been that it’s safer to attend professional displays rather than using fireworks at home. It’s also cheaper and usually easy to get to, as there are plenty of displays taking place across the capital over the coming weeks. You can use our online fireworks display map to find a safe organised display near you.
“If you do choose to use fireworks at home, it’s important to remember that fireworks are explosives. Only buy fireworks from a reputable, licensed seller and make sure they have a CE safety mark. Secure them properly in the ground, and keep them far away from buildings, trees, animals, and people.
“Always follow the Fireworks Code and remember there are strict laws around when you can purchase and use fireworks. Never set them off if you’ve been drinking alcohol and once a firework is lit, never go back it.
“Disposing of fireworks safely is just as important as using them correctly. Don’t leave used fireworks or sparklers lying around and never throw them into bins when they’re still hot. Allow them to cool properly before throwing them away.”
One of the Brigade's 32-metre turntable ladders was used at the scene to support firefighters at the scene.
Metropolitan Police were called to Oasis Academy at 17:41 hours after staff became aware of a fire.
London Fire Brigade’s Control Officers received the first of 12 calls at 1743 and mobilised four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Enfield, Chingford, Woodford and Edmonton fire stations to the scene. The incident was over for crews at 1859.