Key Points:
- A woman and a baby escaped a flat fire in Wards Wharf Approach, Silvertown, Newham.
- The fire was caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.
- Half of a four-bedroom flat and one and a half balconies were damaged.
- The London Fire Brigade responded with four fire engines and about 25 firefighters.
- The fire was extinguished by 3.40pm on February 23.
- No injuries were reported as the woman and baby left the property before firefighters arrived.
- London Fire Brigade urges smokers to ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished to prevent fires.
- Firefighters recommend using the online Home Fire Safety Checker for personalised fire safety advice.
Silvertown Flat Fire: Woman and Baby Escape Blaze Caused by Cigarette
A woman and a baby managed to escape unscathed from a flat fire in Wards Wharf Approach, Silvertown, which was sparked by the unsafe disposal of a lit cigarette. The fire, which broke out at approximately 2.53pm on February 23, caused significant damage to the four-bedroom flat and its balconies.
What Caused the Fire in Wards Wharf Approach?
According to the London Fire Brigade, the fire was accidentally started due to the improper disposal of smoking materials. This incident serves as a warning for smokers about the dangers of not fully extinguishing cigarettes.
How Severe Was the Damage?
Half of the flat was affected by the fire, with one balcony completely destroyed and another partially damaged. The extent of the fire highlights the dangers posed by neglected smoking materials.
How Did Emergency Services Respond?
Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters from Plaistow, Poplar, Stratford, and Millwall stations were deployed to tackle the blaze. Firefighters managed to bring the fire under control and extinguish it by 3.40pm.
Were There Any Injuries?
Fortunately, there were no injuries as the woman and baby left the flat before firefighters arrived. The swift evacuation prevented any casualties.
What Fire Safety Advice Has Been Issued?
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson stressed the importance of safely disposing of smoking materials, stating: “If you’re a smoker, it’s absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it. If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life.”
Firefighters also recommended that residents use the online Home Fire Safety Checker to identify potential hazards and receive tailored fire safety advice. The tool assesses risks and provides personalised recommendations for improving home safety.
This incident underscores the importance of fire safety precautions, particularly for smokers, to prevent devastating household fires.
