Firefighters have issued a smoking safety reminder after a discarded cigarette is believed to have caused a fire in Pevensey Road, Forest Gate on Friday (4 August).
Two fire engines and 10 firefighters and officers were called to a fire in a terraced house.
Half of the ground floor was damaged by fire.
A man left the property before the arrival of the Brigade and he was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation by London Ambulance Service crews.
The Brigade’s fire investigators believe the most likely cause of the fire was a discarded cigarette.
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.”
• Make sure you have smoke alarms fitted in every room you regularly use in your home including in the hallways.
• Never smoke in bed.
• Always ensure you stub out cigarettes properly and dispose of them carefully.
• Keep matches and lighters out of children's reach.
• Never leave lit cigarettes or cigars unattended.
• Empty ashtrays carefully, ensuring all smoking materials are stubbed out and cold.
• If you must smoke, do it outdoors.
The Brigade was called at 1920 and the fire was under control by 1946. Fire crews from Leytonstone and Stratford fire stations attended.