Flat fire - Colindale

Firefighters have issued a smoking safety reminder after a fire at a flat in Parklea Close in Colindale.

The balcony area and bedroom of one flat were destroyed by fire and the remainder of the flat sustained smoke damage. There were no reports of any injuries.

The Brigade's fire investigation team believe the fire was accidental and was caused by a cigarette which was thought to be extinguished and had been discarded in a plant pot. It is thought this caused the peat in the pot to self heat and smoulder before catching light and spreading to items stored on the balcony.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "This incident shows why it's so important to make sure you put your cigarettes out properly when you've finished smoking.

"If you don't you risk causing 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 0340 and the fire was under control at 0447. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Mill Hill, Hendon and Stanmore fire stations attended the scene.