Firefighters have issued a smoking safety warning following a house fire on Vaughan Street in Southwark.
Half of the loft space in the two storey mid terraced house was damaged by fire. Two men left the property before the Brigade arrived at the scene.
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'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.
“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’s 999 Control Officers took the first of nine calls to the fire at 1221 and sent four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Deptford, Old Kent Road, Peckham and Greenwich fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 1402.
Firefighters' smoking safety tips
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Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.
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Don’t leave lit cigarettes unattended.
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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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Don't balance cigars or cigarettes on the edge of an ashtray, or anything else – they can tip and fall as they burn away and cause a fire.
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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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Always empty ashtrays carefully. Make sure smoking materials are out, cold and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin – never use a wastepaper basket.