Cigarettes dropped out of windows from a block of flats is believed to be the cause of a blaze on Fulham Road in Chelsea.
The Brigade thinks that a carelessly disposed cigarette may have caught cardboard alight and got into the air treatment unit that was in a courtyard of a disused shop. The fire damaged part of the building’s ventilation system.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “If you smoke it is vitally important you stub it right out. Never throw lit cigarette butts out of windows as you don’t know what it may land on and could potentially start a fire.”
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.
The Brigade was called at 1139 and the fire was under control by 1236. Two fire engines and around 10 firefighters from Chelsea Fire Station were at the scene.