A hallway on the fifth floor of an eleven-story apartment building was damaged by fire. Those inside a flat adjacent to the fire received critical fire survival advice from the Brigade’s 999 Control Officers. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus led one man from a nearby flat to safety. The London Ambulance Service assessed him on the scene and treated him for smoke inhalation.
There were no working smoke alarms in the flat next to the fire.
“This incident is a timely reminder about the importance of having smoke alarms in your home,” said Station Officer Adam Placey, who was on the scene. This incident occurred in the middle of the night, and luckily, residents smelled smoke and were able to call 999. Without working smoke alarms, you and your loved ones are at risk.
“Homes require multiple smoke alarms or you will not be adequately protected. You should have smoke alarms on every floor of your home, including the hallways and rooms you use the most, as well as a heat alarm in the bathroom and kitchen.
This incident also is a good opportunity to remind residents to not store belongings in communal areas as they can pose a real risk to safety. In the event of a fire, items in hallways and on stairs can prevent people from escaping and firefighters from doing their jobs. Always keep corridors, stairs, and stairwells clear.”
The Fire Department was called at 12.56m and the fire was out by 1.48am Enfield, Edmonton, and Chingford fire departments were all present.
The Metropolitan Police Service is investigating the cause of the fire.
