Two evacuated from homes above flaming restaurant in Penge
Two people were evacuated from flats above after a fat fryer burst into flames in a restaurant yesterday morning.
Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled the blaze on the High Street in Penge.
The extraction system from the ground to the first floor of the three-storey building was damaged by the fire. Part of the ground floor was also left blackened by smoke and flames.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus led one man and one woman to safety using an internal staircase. They were assessed on scene by paramedics before they were told their lungs were not badly damaged. They then began the process of cleaning up.
The brigade had been called at 10.36am and the fire was under control by 11.34am. Fire crews from Beckenham, Forest Hill and West Norwood fire stations were at the scene.
The fire is believed to have been accidental and involved a fryer.
Firefighters’ have given their top tips for restaurants and takeaways:
- Have ducting in your extraction system (ventilation) cleaned regularly
- Ensure ducting is installed correctly
- Take extra care when cooking with hot oil as it can easily overheat and catch fire
- Never fill the pan more than one third full of fat or oil
- Make sure food is dry before putting it in hot oil – oil and water are a dangerous mix
- Use an electronic deep fat fryer if possible – they have automatic temperature controls and are much safer
- Ensure your electrical system is regularly tested
- Complete your Fire Risk Assessment and make an emergency plan