Fire Breaks Out in Sheltered Housing Block – Man Rescued
Flames Rip Through Ground Floor
A fire tore through part of the ground floor in a two-storey sheltered housing block this afternoon. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rushed in to rescue one man, who was treated on site for smoke inhalation by London Ambulance Service medics. Before emergency crews arrived, around 30 residents had already evacuated the building.
Candle Sparks Blaze
The fire is believed to have started accidentally from a candle left burning. A London Fire Brigade spokesperson warned, “Candles, incense sticks, and oil burners are one of the most common causes of fire. It is critical never to leave a candle unattended and to keep them well away from anything flammable.”
They added, “Always use heat-resistant holders and place candles on stable surfaces so they don’t topple over.”
Swift Response Ends Fire in 24 Minutes
The Brigade was called at 2:17pm, and the blaze was extinguished by 2:41pm. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from Homerton, Bethnal Green, and Shoreditch stations tackled the fire.
Firefighters’ Candle Safety Tips
- Always extinguish candles, incense sticks, and oil burners before leaving the room or going to bed.
- Use heat-resistant holders and place candles on firm surfaces unlikely to be knocked over.
- Keep lit candles away from curtains, furniture, clothes, and hair.
- Tea lights get extremely hot and can melt plastic surfaces if not properly supported.
- Consider switching to LED candles—they’re safer and won’t cause fires if forgotten.
