Firefighters issue cigarette and barbecue warnings after Hoxton roof fire

Firefighters have issued two safety warnings after a fire on a roof at a block of flats in Shepherdess Walk in Hoxton.

The Brigade’s fire investigators believe the most likely cause of the fire was due to the careless disposal of a cigarette. However due to the level of damage caused on the flat roof, fire investigators cannot rule out a charcoal barbecue, which was found in the area where the fire started, as a cause.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “We would urge people not to smoke at all, but if you do, always ensure your cigarettes are properly extinguished before discarding them to prevent fires from starting.

“You should also never have a barbecue on a roof or balcony. If you are using a barbecue, make sure you light it well away from anything that could catch fire, keep an eye on it at all times and never use a barbecue indoors.”

Barbecue safety tips

• Never use a barbecue indoors or on a balcony
• Position your barbecue on level ground and keep it well away from anything that may catch fire (sheds, fences, trees, tents etc.)
• Keep children, pets and garden games away from the barbecue
• Have a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergency use
• Never use a barbecue indoors or in a unventilated space as there is a real risk of creating dangerous Carbon Monoxide gas

Eight people were led to safety by firefighters via an internal staircase and a further 20 people left the building before the arrival of the Brigade.

The Brigade was called at 0050 and the fire was under control at 0231. Six fire engines and 35 firefighters and officers from Shoreditch, Islington, Whitechapel, Euston, Dowgate and Bethnal Green fire stations attended the scene.