House fire - Orpington

Firefighters are reminding smokers to take care after a house fire on Chelsfield Lane in Orpington.

Half of the first floor of a semi-detached house was damaged by the fire. One man left the building before the Brigade arrived. He was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews suffering smoke inhalation.

The Brigade's fire investigation team believe the fire was accidental and caused by discarded smoking materials.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "If you smoke it is vitally important you stub your cigarette right out, preferably in an ashtray.

"If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life."

The Brigade was called at 0830 and the fire was under control by 0932. Fire crews from Orpington and Sidcup fire stations were at the scene.

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.