Studio Flat Goes Up in Flames Over Careless Cigarette
A ground floor studio flat was partially destroyed by fire after careless disposal of smoking materials sparked a blaze. Around 50 people evacuated before firefighters arrived to tackle the inferno.
Firefighters Rush In to Tackle Coffee Table Blaze
Wearing breathing apparatus, firefighters quickly entered the property and found a small fire involving a coffee table. Fire investigators believe the cause was a cigarette not properly extinguished.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson warned: “We’d rather you didn’t smoke at all, but if you do, it’s absolutely vital to make sure your cigarette is completely out when finished. If not, you risk a fire that could destroy your home or even cost your life.”
Smoker Safety Tips: Avoid Ashtray Disasters
- Smoke outside whenever possible and fully extinguish cigarettes before disposal.
- Never smoke in bed or on sofas and armchairs, especially if you might nod off.
- Use sturdy ashtrays that can’t tip over and put cigarettes out properly.
- Empty ashtrays carefully; ensure smoking materials are cold or wet before binning them. Never use a wastepaper basket.
Fire Brigade Responds Fast
The Brigade was called at 12:14 am and brought the fire under control by 1:07 am. Five fire engines and around 35 firefighters from Shadwell, Whitechapel, Bethnal Green, Dowgate and Shoreditch fire stations responded swiftly to the scene.
