Flat fire - Greenwich

Firefighters are issuing a safety reminder about smoking following a fire at a flat on Little Cottage Place in Greenwich.

Half of the split level flat on the third floor of the four storey building was destroyed by fire. Half of the flat's external fascia and balcony were also damaged by the blaze as well as a small part of the flat on the fourth floor. A 32 metre ladder was deployed to use as an observation tower.

The fire is being treated as accidental and is believed to have been 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 as you don’t know what it may land on which could potentially start a fire."

It was an extremely visible fire, prompting 28 calls to the Brigade's 999 Control room. The first call was received at 0820. Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Greenwich, Deptford and East Greenwich fire stations were in attendance. The incident was under control by 0939.

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.