Fire at house converted into flats - Norwood

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters attended a fire on Knollys Road in Norwood.

The fire occurred at a three-storey house that has been converted into flats. Half of a flat on the second floor was damaged by fire.

One man was rescued by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus from the second floor via an internal staircase. He was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service. Four further people evacuated the property before firefighters arrived.

The fire is believed to have been caused by the unsafe use of candles.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Candles are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from anything else that can easily catch alight.”

The Brigade was called at 0639 and Control Officers mobilised crews from West Norwood and Brixton fire stations to the scene. The fire was extinguished by 0754.

Top candle safety tips

• Keep candles away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can catch fire.
• Keep loose clothing and hair away from candles when they are lit.
• Always place your candles/tea lights in a suitable fire resistant candleholder.
• Make sure the candleholder holds the candle firmly and is on a flat and stable surface to stop it falling over.