Warnings over portable heaters after fire takes hold in Fulham flat
Firefighters have issued a reminder of their heating safety advice following a fire at a block of flats in North End Road in Fulham.
Part of a three-roomed flat on the eighth floor was damaged by the fire. There were no reports of any injuries.
The fire is believed to have been accidental and was caused by combustibles placed too close to a fan heater.
A London Fire Brigade spokesman said: “The rise in energy costs means there’s a very real risk of heating-related fires.
“We know that people will turn to alternative ways to keep their families warm overnight without turning on the heating. We just want to make sure that people are staying safe at the same time.
“It’s absolutely vital that heaters are kept well away from curtains, furniture and paperwork and are never used to dry clothes.
“Always sit at least a metre away from the heater as it could set fire to your clothes or your chair, supervise children carefully and position a heater where it won’t be knocked over and away from pets.
“It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure these items are safety registered and in good working order.
“Place heaters somewhere where they won’t be accidentally knocked over and away from anything that could catch fire.”
The spokesman added: “Firefighters recommend that you have a look at our online Home Fire Safety Checker to make sure there are no hidden hazards in your home.
“The online tool will ask you a series of questions that will help us work out the level of risk in your home, or the home of someone you care for. It only takes a few minutes to get tailored advice to keep yourself and loved ones safe from fire.”
Control Officers took the first of three calls shortly before midnight yesterday and mobilised six fire engines and about 40 firefighters from Fulham, Hammersmith, Chelsea and surrounding fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by around 12.30am.
Pictured top: Aftermath of the fire (Picture: LFB)