With more Diwali celebrations expected this evening, the London Fire Brigade has issued another warning about the misuse of fireworks and fire safety in and around people’s homes, after dealing with more than 3,000 emergency call-outs in the last four nights.
The call-outs include firefighters using breathing equipment when rescuing a dog from a burning house in Croydon last night, where the fire is thought to have started from a ceremonial candle.
Four fire engines from Woodside, Addington and Beckenham fire stations, and around 25 firefighters, tackled the house fire on Parkfields in Shirley. The Brigade was called out at 6.47pm and had the fire under control within an hour. There are no reported injuries.
Part of the first floor of the end-of-terrace house and part of the front of a neighbouring property were damaged by the fire.
“A man and a woman left the property before the Brigade arrived and were assessed on scene by London Ambulance Service crews,” the LFB said today.
This one incident came after the Brigade’s control officers handled around 200 firework- and bonfire-related calls since last Thursday, November 5 – Bonfire Night.
“Around 50 firework-related calls were on Sunday alone as Bonfire Night celebrations continued and Diwali began,” the Brigade said.
“As families and friends come together to celebrate Diwali, many will be using candles and fireworks as part of the festivities,” a Brigade spokesperson said.
“While these traditions help make the Festival of Lights special, it’s important to enjoy them safely and take simple precautions to help protect your loved ones.
“If you are hosting your own fireworks display, make sure you are buying safe fireworks from a reputable, licensed seller with a CE safety mark. Secure them properly in the ground, and keep them far away from buildings, trees, animals and people.
“Always follow the Fireworks Code and remember there are strict laws around when you can purchase and use fireworks.
“If you are lighting candles as part of your celebrations, it’s really important that you never leave them 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.”
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