The fire destroyed a small portion of a first-floor room in a three-story hotel. Before the Brigade arrived, about twenty people had evacuated the hotel. Four people were rescued from the second floor via an internal staircase using smoke hoods by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus, and they were treated on the scene by London Ambulance Service crews.
The fire is thought to have been started accidentally by candles.
It’s really important you never leave candles unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire, such as curtains, furniture, or clothes,” a London Fire Brigade spokesperson said.
“We recommend replacing traditional candles with LED flameless candles because they are much safer, but if you must use real candles, make sure to follow our simple safety tips.”
The Fire Department was called at 1.16am, and the fire was out by 2.02am. Four fire engines and approximately 25 firefighters from Croydon, Woodside, Purley, and Norbury fire stations responded.
Candle safety precautions
When you leave the room, especially before going to bed, make sure to extinguish any candles, incense, or oil burners.
These items should always be kept firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they will not fall over.
Keep them away from materials that could catch fire, such as curtains, furniture, clothes, and hair.
Tea lights can get very hot and, if not properly holder, can melt through plastic surfaces such as a TV or bath.
Keep candles and other naked flames out of the reach of children and pets to avoid accidents.
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