Firefighters are warning people not to use candles close to aerosol cans after the two combined to spark a flat fire on Thurlow Street in Walworth.
The occupant of the property was using expanding foam to seal a hole in a cupboard when they lit a candle to help them see. The flame from the candle ignited the vapour from the expanding foam and caused a small fire.
A small part of the cupboard and cable ducting to the floor above was damaged by fire.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Aerosol cans should always be kept away from naked flames, but it is also important to remember that the vapours from these compressed cans can also cause fires to start if they come into contact with heat sources like candles.
“If you are working with aerosols, never use a candle or flame as a source of light. Always use a torch if you can’t see properly. Thankfully nobody was injured but the outcome could have been much worse.”
The Brigade was called at 1930 and the fire was under control at 2010. Five fire engines and around 30 firefighters and officers from Old Kent Road, Peckham, Dockhead and Lambeth stations attended the scene.