Rubbish fire - Hayes

Firefighters have issued a reminder of their smoking safety advice following a fire at a high rise building on Uxbridge Road in Hayes. 

Crews extinguished a small external rubbish fire at the rear of the nine storey building. A small part of the building's cladding was damaged by heat. 

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "If you smoke it is vitally important you stub it right out, preferably in an ashtray.

"Always ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it. If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life. Firefighters recommend that you have a look at our online Home Fire Safety Checker to make sure there are no hidden hazards in your home.

"The online tool will ask you a series of questions that will help us work out the level of risk in your home, or the home of someone you care for. It only takes a few minutes to get tailored advice to keep yourself and loved ones safe from fire."

The Brigade was called at 0144 and the incident was over for firefighters at 0400. Five fire engines and around 30 firefighters from Hillingdon, Northolt, Ealing and Feltham fire stations attended the scene.

Smoking safety top tips

• It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
• Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on arm chairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.
• Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
• Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.