Firefighters issue candle safety warning after Ilford flat fire

Firefighters have issued a candle safety warning after a fire at a house converted into flats in Wellesley Road in Ilford.

An occupant of the property was alerted to the fire after they woke up to a smoke alarm sounding in their flat. They noticed flames in the conservatory and alerted other occupants to the fire before leaving the property and calling 999.

The conservatory was destroyed by fire and one bedroom received slight damage. Eight adults and three children left the property before the arrival of the Brigade.

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was called by a candle left unattended in the conservatory. 

A 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 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.
• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

The Brigade was called at 0310 and the fire was under control at 0429. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Ilford, Stratford and Barking fire stations attended the scene.