Firefighters are issuing a reminder of their smoking safety advice after a fire on Gillian Crescent in Gidea Park.
A bin shed was destroyed, and numerous parked vehicles were also partly damaged by the fire, alongside a small part of an adjacent building. There were no reports of any injuries.
The fire is believed to have been caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "If you're a smoker, it’s absolutely vital you 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.”
The Brigade’s Control Officers took the first of 11 calls to the fire at 1943 and mobilised four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Harold Hill, Ilford, Hornchurch and Romford fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 2011.
Smoking safety top tips
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It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
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Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on arm chairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.
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Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
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Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.