Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters responded to a fire on Forrester Way, Stratford.
The fire occurred in a third floor flat, in a residential block of seven floors. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued a women from the flat, bringing her to safety by via the internal staircase.
The Brigade was first called about the incident at 1246, and crews from Stratford, Leyton and Leytonstone fire stations were sent to the scene. Firefighters had the incident under control by 1318.
The fire is believed to have been caused by burning incense being placed to near combustible materials.
How to use incense safely
- Never leave candles, incense sticks and oil burners unattended - this includes 'Diya lamps'' often used for worship and religious festivals.
- Make sure you put them out when you leave the room and especially before bed.
- Keep them in heat-resistant holders placed on a stable surface.
- Don't put them close to anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, papers, furniture, and clothes.
- To avoid accidents keep candles and all naked flames (including matches and lighters) out of the reach of children and pets.