Inferno Tears Through Penge Takeaway
A savage blaze ripped through a takeaway on Maple Road, Penge, on Saturday, December 20. Around 25 firefighters and four engines fought fiercely as flames gutted part of the shop and damaged the flat above.
Two Hospitalised as Firefighters Battle Blaze
Two people were rushed to hospital after the fire. Another two were treated at the scene by ambulance crews. Miraculously, no lives were lost in the fiery chaos.
Fire Triggered by Unattended Grill Sparking Ducting Blaze
Investigators believe the fire started when a hot grill was left unattended, igniting the takeaway’s ducting system. The flames spread fast, feeding off built-up grease and fat.
London Fire Brigade Issues Serious Warning to Takeaway Owners
“Cooking should never be left unattended on the hob or grill – if you have to leave the kitchen, turn off the heat,” warned a London Fire Brigade spokesperson.
“Dirty ducting is a major fire risk. Restaurant and takeaway owners must clean their extraction systems regularly. Built-up fat and grease in hobs, cooker hoods, and extractor fans can easily ignite.”
Fire crews from Beckenham, Woodside, Forest Hill, and West Norwood were called just after 10am. They battled the blaze for nearly three hours, finally bringing it under control by 1.07pm.
This fiery drama is a harsh reminder: takeaway and restaurant owners must stay vigilant. Keep cooking areas attended and clean all extraction systems thoroughly to avoid deadly fires.
