Candle safety warning after Kentish Town flat fire

Firefighters have issued a candle safety warning after a fire at a block of flats on Raglan Street in Kentish Town this morning.

A small part of a four roomed flat on the 11th floor of a 12 storey block of flats was damaged by fire. The Brigade’s fire investigators believe the fire was caused by a candle left unattended.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Candles are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from curtains and anything else that can easily catch fire.”

Top candle safety tips

• Keep candles/tea lights away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can catch fire.
• Keep loose clothing and hair away from candles/tea lights when they are lit.
• Always place your candles/tea lights in a suitable fire resistant candleholder
• Make sure the candleholder holds the candle/tea light firmly and is on a flat and stable surface to stop it falling over.
• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed Keep out of reach of children and pets 

Two people left the flat before the Brigade arrived and fortunately there were no injuries.

The Brigade was called at 0138 and the fire was under control by 0252. Five fire engines and around 25 firefighters and officers from Kentish Town, Euston, Islington and Soho fire stations were at the scene.