A fire in the early hours of Christmas Day in a flat on Elmwood Road is one of four caused by candles over the holiday period which has prompted the London Fire Brigade to issue an urgent warning.
Candle light: three people were evacuated from the fourth-floor flat when bedding was ignited by a candle
The Elmwood Road blaze was on the fourth floor of the West Croydon block, and started after a candle ignited bedding. Three people escaped unhurt, the LFB said.
“The use of candles is heightened around Christmas time and firefighters are urging people to take as much care as possible,” the LFB said.
The Brigade dealt with four domestic fires in four days, all started from unattended candles: one in Edmonton on December 27, another on Christmas Day in Hayes, and the fourth when it took six fire engines and around 40 firefighters to deal with a blaze at a maisonette in Peckham.
In the latter incident, two people needed treatment for smoke inhalation. There were no casualties at any of the other fires.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Richard Arnold said: “Fires can cause devastation all year round, but this is heightened around Christmas with families potentially left homeless and possessions destroyed. We want to ensure Londoners take every precaution to prevent fires from spoiling the festive period.
“Keep candles well away from any Christmas decorations. Decorations can easily fuel a fire and as Christmas trees dry out, they can burn quickly and cause flames to spread in seconds.
“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 lit candles unattended.
“Take particular care with children and pets and blow the candles out properly before you go to bed.”
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