Maisonette fire - Woolwich

A carelessly discarded cigarette is believed to have been the cause of a fire at a block of maisonettes on Bowling Green Row, Woolwich. 

Part of the outside of a maisonette on the ground and first floor was damaged by the fire and the inside was heavily smoke logged.

Two adults and three children left the property before the Brigade arrived.  Two men were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation by London Ambulance Service crews, and one was taken to hospital. 

The Brigade’s fire investigation team believe a cigarette from the above maisonette was thrown over and caught light to items which were stored below. 

A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade said: “If you smoke, it’s so important to ensure your cigarette is disposed of carefully.

"It’s really dangerous to throw cigarettes off balconies, and as we’ve seen here they can easily start fires.

"Make sure your cigarette is fully out and use a proper ashtray that won’t burn or tip over easily, and never leave your lit cigarette unattended.”

The brigade was called at 0544 and the fire was under control by 0648. Two fire engines and around 10 firefighters from East Greenwich Fire Station attended. 

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.