Firefighters Issue Warning After Blazing Semi-Detached Houses in South Croydon
A nasty fire ripped through two semi-detached homes on Mallard Road, South Croydon, causing serious damage and sparking a stark warning for smokers to dispose of their cigarettes safely.
Flames Ravage Homes and Garage
The blaze damaged part of the ground floor in one house and gutted a detached garage, while the neighbouring property suffered damage to both ground and first floors. A shed was completely destroyed.
Thankfully, nine residents escaped before firefighters arrived. No injuries were reported.
Fire crews had to cool two gas cylinders at the scene to prevent explosions, highlighting the serious risks involved.
Fire Caused by Careless Cigarette Disposal
The fire brigade took 15 emergency calls about the blaze, which is believed to have started because of unsafe cigarette disposal.
The fire was reported at 1:53am and brought under control by just after 3am. Six fire engines and 40 firefighters from Addington, Croydon, Purley, and Woodside stations rushed to the scene.
Firefighters’ Top Tips to Avoid Fire Risks from Smoking
- Always smoke outside and ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished before throwing away.
- Never smoke in bed or on sofas and armchairs, especially if you might nod off.
- Be extra cautious when tired, under prescription drugs, or after alcohol consumption.
- Use stable ashtrays that won’t tip over and never balance cigarettes on ashtray edges.
- Never leave lit cigarettes or pipes unattended.
- Empty ashtrays carefully, making sure ashes are cold and preferably wet before disposal — never in a wastepaper basket.
- Keep matches and lighters out of reach of children and opt for child-resistant lighters.
- Avoid smoking when using medical equipment like oxygen or air flow devices, and consult about non-flammable creams or fire-retardant bedding if using paraffin-based emollients.
Firefighters urge everyone to take these precautions seriously to prevent another dangerous and costly blaze.
