Flats sprinkler system saves building from being destroyed by blaze

A building’s sprinkler system saved a flat from being “severely” damaged by a fire that broke out on the fourth floor of a nine-floor building last night.

The fire “destroyed” part of the flat in Millbank, Westminster, before the sprinkler system activated and helped contain the fire before crews extinguished the blaze. 

The brigade was called at around 6pm and the fire was under control by around 8pm. Five fire engines and about 35 firefighters from Lambeth, Soho and Clapham fire stations attended the scene.

The cause of the fire was accidental and is believed to be due to a faulty washer-dryer.  

No injuries were reported by the London Fire Brigade (LFB).

A spokesman from the LFB said: “The number of buildings in London with sprinkler systems are still very low and we would like to see this increase. 

“Sprinklers, alongside other fire safety measures, can greatly reduce the impact of fires on people, property, homes and communities.

“Sprinklers are not a luxury – they save lives and also reduce risk to the firefighters who have to tackle the fires.”

Pictured top: The fire “destroyed” part of the fourth floor flat in Millbank (Picture: LFB)