Flat fire - Mitcham

An unattended candle is believed to have caused a fire at a house converted into flats on Grenfell Road in Mitcham.

Firefighters assisted a man from the affected flat on the second floor via the internal staircase. He was suffering from smoke inhalation and was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews. A small part of the flat was damaged by fire.

Six further people from neighbouring flats left before the Brigade arrived.

London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:

“Candles are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from curtains and anything else that can easily catch fire.”

Top candle safety tips

• Keep candles/tea lights away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can catch fire. Keep loose clothing and hair away from candles/tea lights when they are lit.
• Always place your candles/tea lights in a suitable fire resistant candleholder
• Make sure the candleholder holds the candle/tea light firmly and is on a flat and stable surface to stop it falling over.

The Brigade was called at 0149 and the fire was under control by 0246. Fire crews from Tooting, Mitcham and Wimbledon fire stations attended the scene.