Early Morning Blaze Breaks Out in Three-Storey Hotel – Four Rescued!
A fire ripped through part of a first-floor room in a three-storey hotel, sparking panic in the early hours. About twenty guests evacuated before firefighters arrived. Fire crews rescued four people trapped on the second floor using smoke hoods and breathing apparatus. Those rescued were treated on the scene by London Ambulance Service.
Blaze Likely Sparked by Candles
Investigators believe the blaze was accidentally started by unattended candles. A London Fire Brigade spokesperson warned: “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.
The spokesperson added: “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.”
Firefighters Rush to Scene
The fire department was called at 1.16am. Four fire engines and roughly 25 firefighters from croydon/" title="Croydon" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Croydon, Woodside, Purley, and Norbury rushed to the hotel. They got the fire under control by 2.02am, preventing further damage and injuries.
Essential Candle Safety Tips
- Always extinguish candles, incense, or oil burners before leaving a room or going to bed.
- Use heat-resistant holders and place candles on stable surfaces to prevent tipping.
- Keep candles away from flammable items like curtains, furniture, clothes, and hair.
- Be aware that tea lights can get extremely hot and may melt through plastic surfaces such as TVs or baths if not properly supported.
- Keep candles and flames out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidents.
