Firefighters are warning people to keep clothes and bedding away from electric heaters following a fire in a flat in Earl’s Court.
It happened on Sunday (March 13) in Penywern Road , and resulted in half the bedsit being damaged by the blaze.
The brigade was called at 9am after a man noticed smoke coming from under the table in his bedsit.
He moved to an adjoining flat where he was rescued by crews wearing breathing apparatus and treated at the scene by London Ambulance Service.
Around 30 people left the building before fire crews arrived thanks to the smoke alarm sounding.
Fire investigators believe the cause of the blaze was flammable objects such as bedding, newspapers or furniture being left too close to an electric heater.
A spokesperson said: “Shockingly over two thirds of fatal fires involving heaters are caused by furniture or clothing being too close. People need to make sure their portable heaters are standing upright and kept well away from clothes, curtains or furniture.”
Four fire engines from Chelsea, Fulham, Hammersmith and Soho, with 21 firefighters attended the incident. They had the situation under control by 10.30am.
London Fire Brigade electric heater advice
- Never sit too close to the heater as you could set light to your clothes or chair, especially if you fall asleep
- Heaters should stand where they can’t be knocked over, away from beds, furniture and fabrics
- Do not put anything on the heater or use it to dry clothes
