Firefighters are sharing their candle safety advice after a flat fire on Hunting Place in Hounslow.
Most of a first-floor flat was damaged by fire. Firefighters led 16 people to safety using fire escape hoods. Eight people were assessed on scene by London Ambulance Service crews.
London firefighters were among the first in the UK to carry fire escape hoods when they were introduced in 2018 as part of improvements following the Grenfell Tower fire. The hoods provide members of the public with up to 15 minutes protection from four of the main fire gases (carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen chloride and acrolein) and can be worn by conscious or unconscious people. If more than 15 minutes protection is required then another hood can be given to each wearer. They do not provide oxygen but temporarily filter toxic smoke to make breathing easier.
The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by a candle.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Candles are one of the most common causes of fires in the home and you should be careful when using them.
"This is a timely reminder on Candle Fire Safety Week to never leave candles unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture or clothes.
"We recommend swapping traditional candles for LED flameless ones as they are much safer, but if you do use real candles, follow our simple safety tips.
“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 Control Officers took the first of four calls to the fire at 1914 and sent crews from Heston, Feltham, Southall and Hammersmith fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 2034.
Candle safety tips
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Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.
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These items should always be held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over.
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Keep them away from materials that might catch fire – that's things like curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.
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Be aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath
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To avoid accidents keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets