Four Flee Lewisham Blaze as Restaurant Goes Up in Flames
Four people were forced to flee their homes after a blaze ripped through a three-storey building in Lewisham in the early hours of Tuesday, August 27. Firefighters revealed the restaurant at the heart of the fire had no working smoke alarms.
Massive Fire Destroys Ground Floor and Staircase
Around 25 firefighters and four fire engines rushed to Belmont Hill at 1 AM, tackling flames engulfing the restaurant on the ground floor and flats above. The fire completely destroyed the ground floor, the first floor, and the connecting staircase.
Two residents escaped before crews arrived, while two more were evacuated from nearby buildings. Miraculously, no injuries were reported despite the extensive damage.
Fire Brigade Urges Smoke Alarm Safety
The blaze was brought under control by 3:18 AM. London Fire Brigade is actively investigating the cause of the fire.
“This incident also shows just how important it is to have working smoke alarms fitted on every level of your home,” a London Fire Brigade spokesperson said. “Smoke alarms give the earliest possible warning when a fire starts. We urge everyone to ensure alarms are installed in every room where a fire could start – except kitchens or bathrooms where heat alarms are better.”
Fire crews from Lewisham, Lee Green, Deptford, and New Cross fire stations worked together to contain the blaze. The London Fire Brigade continues to urge residents across the capital to check their smoke alarms and stay safe.
