Smoking safety reminder after Camberwell flat fire

Firefighters have issued a reminder about safely disposing of cigarettes and other smoking materials after a fire at a flat in Crawford Road in Camberwell.

The balcony of a second floor flat was destroyed in the fire. Two women were rescued by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus and were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was caused by a discarded cigarette in a plant pot.

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."

Safety advice for smokers

• 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 1241 and the fire was under control at 1259. Two fire engines and 10 firefighters and officers from Peckham and Brixton fire stations attended the scene.