Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a house fire on Parkfields in Croydon.
Part of the first floor of an end-of-terrace house was damaged by fire. Part of the front of a neighbouring property was also damaged. A man and a woman left the property before the Brigade arrived and were assessed on scene by London Ambulance Service crews. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued a dog from the building.
The fire was believed to have been accidental and caused by a candle.
The Brigade was called at 1847 and the fire was under control by 1946. Fire crews from Woodside, Addington and Beckenham fire stations attended the scene.
Tips for using candles and diyas safely
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Consider using battery-powered, flameless LED candles instead, which are safe even if you fall asleep.
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Never leave candles, incense sticks and oil burners unattended.
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Make sure you put them out when you leave the room and especially before bed.
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Keep them in heat-resistant holders placed on a stable surface.
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Don't put them close to anything that can catch fire, such as decorations, curtains, papers, furniture, and clothes.
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To avoid accidents keep candles and all naked flames (including matches and lighters) out of the reach of children and pets.
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Tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.