Heroic Firefighters Rescue Man from Goodmayes Blaze
Firefighters rushed to a care home fire on Abbotsford Road, Goodmayes last night, saving a man trapped in a burning flat. The blaze gutted half of a first-floor flat, but thanks to brave crews in breathing apparatus, the man was rescued via an internal staircase.
Thirteen other residents were safely evacuated, while London Ambulance Service took the rescued man to hospital. The fire started around 9.53pm and was completely extinguished by 11.13pm, with teams from Dagenham, Barking, Romford, and Ilford all pitching in.
Smoking Sparks Dangerous Blaze
The fire appears to have been accidentally caused by smoking materials. A spokesperson from the London Fire Brigade issued a stern warning:
“We’d rather you didn’t smoke at all, but if you do, it’s absolutely critical you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it. If you don’t, you risk starting a fire that will not only destroy your home but will also cost you your life.”
Fire Safety Tips for Smokers
- Smoke outside whenever possible, making sure cigarettes are fully extinguished and properly disposed of.
- Never smoke in bed or on armchairs and sofas—especially if you might fall asleep.
- Be extra cautious if tired, under the influence of prescription drugs, or alcohol.
- Use sturdy ashtrays that won’t tip over; always stub out cigarettes thoroughly.
- Empty ashtrays carefully and never dump smoking materials in wastepaper baskets.
- Always check that cigarettes are out, cold, and ideally wet before discarding.
