The Brigade is reminding Londoners about the dangers of fireworks after a stray firework is believed to have caused a fire at a block of flats on Cranbrook Road in Ilford.
External cladding on the third floor of a block of flats was completely destroyed. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
The fire is believed to be accidental and caused by a stray firework. A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “We encourage people to attend organised fireworks displays instead of using fireworks privately, but if you do choose to use fireworks, make sure you have enough space, buy them from a reputable, licensed seller and always look for a CE mark to make sure they’re safe. Never drink alcohol and set off fireworks and don’t throw fireworks or return to a firework once it has been lit.
“Remember that fireworks are explosives, and as such should be treated with respect and only used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and the Firework Code.”
The Brigade’s safety advice comes as firefighters dealt with 32 firework related calls over the weekend. It also follows a warning from a father who tragically lost six family members in a fire caused by a firework on Diwali. Mr Aroen Kishen said: “Diwali 2023 started as a normal day with my family. In the afternoon we prayed at home together, then we went to the gurdwara in Southall and visited with some family nearby. We all had dinner together and put the children to bed ready for school the next day.
“Shortly after that, I saw the fire. I tried to go upstairs to help my family, but I lost consciousness. I don’t know what happened after that. When I woke up, the whole house was on fire.
“That night, I lost my wife Seema, our three children Riyan, Arohi, Shanaya, and two family friends, Nitin and Sandhaya. I wish they were still alive because what happened that night destroyed my life.
“I want the public to think about those around them before using fireworks. Fireworks aren’t a game and it’s not a movie; it’s real life. Listen to my story and celebrate with your family, at a party or at your place of worship. If you use fireworks, you could lose everything.”
The Brigade's 999 Control officers received their first call alerting them to the fire at 1924. They mobilised crews from East Ham, Barking, Ilford and Hainault fire stations. The fire was under control by 2017.