Firefighters have issued a reminder of their white goods safety advice following a fire at a maisonette on Brenthouse Road in Hackney.
Part of a split-level maisonette on the second and third floors of the building was damaged by fire. Two balconies on the third and fourth floors were also destroyed. Around 50 people left the building before the Brigade arrived. There were no reports of any injuries.
The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by a fault with a freezer.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “This incident serves as an important reminder to make sure that your white goods aren't a hidden fire hazard in your home.
"If your white goods start making strange noises, don’t ignore it. If you think there’s a problem always unplug it and contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.
“Most fires where white goods are the source of ignition are not down to anything you have done – so always make sure you register your appliances as you’ll be informed if any issues are identified with the product you’ve bought.”
The Brigade's Control Officers took the first of 28 calls to the fire at 1306 and sent six fire engines and around 40 firefighters from Homerton, Shadwell, Whitechapel, Islington and surrounding fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 1400.