Fire Rips Through London Maisonette – Electric Heater Blamed
A blaze tore through half of a five-room maisonette’s first floor in a four-storey London block early this morning. Luckily, three residents escaped before firefighters arrived, and no injuries were reported.
Electric Fan Heater Sparks Accidental Inferno
The London Fire Brigade confirmed the fire started due to an electric fan heater and is being treated as accidental. The fire brigade was called at 5:08am, and the flames were extinguished by 6:19am.
Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters rushed to the scene from Stratford, Plaistow, Leytonstone, and Poplar fire stations to tackle the blaze.
Fire Brigade Issues Urgent Safety Warning
Electric fan heaters should always be used in an uncluttered space where heat and airflow are unrestricted,” a London Fire Brigade spokesperson warned.
“It’s also absolutely vital that heaters are kept well away from curtains, furniture, and paperwork, and are never used to dry clothes. Always sit at least a metre away from the heater, especially if you’re working from home. It could catch fire and set fire to your clothes or chair. Place heaters where they won’t be knocked over and away from pets.”
Firefighter Tips to Stay Safe with Portable Heaters
- Ensure heaters are well maintained and in good working order.
- Check if your heater is subject to any recall – fences related to heaters cause many fires yearly.
- Never attempt to install, repair, or service your own heater.
- Keep heaters far from clothing, curtains, furniture, and avoid using them to dry laundry.
- Always sit at least one metre away from the heater to prevent fires.
- Turn off and allow heaters to cool completely before moving them.
