Firefighters are issuing a safety reminder about smoking after a fire at a mixed-use commercial and unoccupied residential building on Tolworth Broadway in Tolworth.
One mattress on an external staircase between the ground and first floors of the 22-storey building was destroyed by fire. Over 20 people left the ground floor commercial property before the arrival of the Brigade. There are no reports of any injuries.
The fire is believed to be accidental and caused by discarded 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's 999 Control Officers took around eight calls to this fire. The Brigade was first called at 1317 and the fire was under control by 1416. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Surbiton, New Malden, Heston and Sutton fire stations attended the scene.