Firefighters say that a severe house fire in West Drayton in the early hours of this morning has highlighted a range of fire safety concerns.
Most of the first floor was damaged by the blaze and part of the roof was also affected. A man was rescued by fire crews wearing breathing apparatus. Thankfully they were uninjured. A man from the room where the fire is believed to have started left the property before the Brigade arrived. He was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.
London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:
“It appears that the fire was started by a candle left lit while the occupant had gone to sleep. It is important that candles are never left unattended and always away from curtains, clothing and bedding. The man tried to tackle the fire himself which meant there was a delay in calling the Brigade. Thankfully a neighbour heard the commotion and dialled 999. We’d urge people in there is a fire in their home to get out, stay out and call 999. Leave firefighting to the professionals.
“There was only one smoke alarm in the property on the ground floor that didn’t sound. Homes need multiple smoke alarms or you won’t be properly covered. Ideal spots for smoke alarms include rooms where you leave electrical equipment running like satellite boxes, computers or heaters; any room where you smoke, and anywhere you charge your mobile or laptop. As a minimum you should have smoke alarms on every floor - in the hallways and the rooms you use the most. It is vital that people regularly test their smoke alarms once a month.
Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers from Hayes, Hillingdon and Heathrow fire stations were at the scene of the fire on Horton Road.
The Brigade was called at 0404 and the fire was under control by 0533.