Babies treated by ambulance crews after devastating flat fire

Two babies were treated by ambulance crews after a fire ripped through a block of flats last night.

Four fire engines and about 25 firefighters tackled the blaze in a three-storey house converted into flats in Grenfell Road, Mitcham. 

One woman and one man were treated at the scene and taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service (LAS) crews. 

A baby boy and baby girl were also assessed by paramedics and taken to hospital for precautionary checks. 

A further 10 people managed to escape the building before the London Fire Brigade (LFB) arrived. 

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus quickly extinguished the fire. But the communal staircase was filled with smoke so fire crews used a nine metre ladder at the front of the property to rescue three people.

Part of a three-roomed flat on the first floor was destroyed by fire, the LFB said.

The blaze is believed to have been accidental and caused by a candle. There were no smoke alarms inside the property where the fire started.

The LFB took their first of three calls to the incident at around 8.40pm. Firefighters from Tooting, Mitcham and Wimbledon fire stations brought the fire under control by around 10.20pm.

Station Officer Edmund Gonzales, who was at the scene, said: “This incident shows just how important it is to have working smoke alarms fitted on every level of your home.

“Candles are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from anything else that can easily catch alight.

“Consider using battery-powered, flameless LED candles instead, which are safe even if you fall asleep. Whilst they may cost more upfront than traditional candles, they will last considerably longer, giving you better value for money.

“If you do choose to use traditional candles ensure you place them in a heat-resistant holder, on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over and away from materials that could catch fire. Never leave them unattended around your home, take particular care with children and pets and blow them out properly before you go to bed.”

Pictured top: Firefighters used a nine metre ladder at the front of the property to rescue three people (Picture: LFB)