Flat fire - Croydon

Firefighters have issued a smoking safety reminder after a fire at a flat on Longheath Gardens in Croydon.

Part of a five-roomed flat on the second floor of a three-storey block was damaged by the fire. There were no reports of any injuries.

The Brigade's fire investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:  “If you smoke, it is vitally important to ensure your cigarette is disposed of carefully by stubbing it out, preferably in an ash tray. 

"If you smoke before bed, make sure your cigarette is fully out and never leave your lit cigarette unattended. As we’ve seen here, carelessly discarded cigarettes can easily start fires."

The Brigade was called at 1433 and the fire was under control by 1527. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Woodside, Beckenham, Croydon and Addington fire stations attended 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.