Baby and Mum’s Narrow Escape in Silvertown Flat Blaze
A woman and her baby made a terrifying escape after a blazing fire tore through their flat in Silvertown, Newham, on Sunday afternoon. The inferno is believed to have been sparked by a carelessly discarded lit cigarette.
Flat Left in Ruins After Cigarette Sparks Fire
The blaze broke out just before 3pm in a four-bedroom flat on Wards Wharf Approach. Half the flat was severely damaged, with two balconies hit hard — one completely destroyed, the other badly scorched.
Thankfully, the woman and her baby got out before firefighters arrived. No injuries were reported.
London Fire Brigade Acts Fast to Douse Flames
London Fire Brigade rushed four fire engines and 25 firefighters from Plaistow, Poplar, Stratford, and Millwall stations. They brought the fire under control by 3:40pm, preventing further devastation.
Smoking Risk Warning from Fire Chiefs
Investigators have confirmed the blaze was caused by improper disposal of smoking materials. A London Fire Brigade spokesperson warned smokers: “If you’re a smoker, it’s absolutely vital you make sure your cigarette is completely out when you finish. If you don’t, you risk a fire that could destroy your home and cost lives.”
LFB urges Londoners to use their free online Home Fire Safety Checker. This handy tool helps spot fire risks in your home with quick, tailored advice.
“It only takes a few minutes to get advice to keep you and your loved ones safe from fire,” said the spokesperson.
Neighbours Shocked by Damage, Urge Fire Safety in Flats
Local residents expressed relief no one was hurt but fear over the dangers of fires starting in multi-storey blocks.
“It’s frightening how quickly a small thing like a cigarette can cause so much damage,” said one concerned neighbour.
For more fire safety tips and to use the Home Fire Safety Checker, visit the London Fire Brigade’s official site.
