Flat fire – Beckenham

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a fire at a flat above a shop on Station Approach in Beckenham.

Part of a third floor flat was damaged by fire. Part of a balcony was also damaged by fire.  Approximately 100 people left the building before the arrival of the Brigade. There were no reports of any injuries.

The Brigade's fire investigation team believe the fire was caused by a disposable barbecue.

A London Fire Brigade Spokesperson said: “The residents of the flat believed their BBQ was fully out when they were finished with it. However,  the disposable barbecue was still alight and burned through plastic nearby. We recommend pouring water over your BBQ to make sure it is fully out when you are done with it.”

 Barbecue safety tips:

• Never use a BBQ – including disposables – indoors or on your balcony.
• Be careful where you position your BBQ – we suggest on level ground, well away from anything flammable like sheds, fences, trees or tents. 
• Don't use petrol, paraffin or any flammable liquids on your BBQ – firelighters are a much safer option. 
• Carefully supervise children – little ones can all too easily trip and fall, while older children might hurt themselves trying to help. 
• Be pet-aware – dogs (and some cats!) love to snaffle sausages and can cause accidents getting under your feet. To be really safe, keep Fido indoors, or at least out of the immediate vicinity of the BBQ.

The Brigade was called at 0019 and the fire was under control by 0151. Fire crews from Forest Hill, Beckenham, Lewisham  and Bromley fire stations attended the scene.