Tooting: Firefighters urge smokers to put out cigarettes properly after 15 firefighters called to fire in Tooting Bec

15 firefighters were called to Tooting Bec last night after a fire was thought to have started from the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

No one was hurt in the fire, however, half of a room on the second floor was damaged by the flames. One person left the building before the fire brigade arrived and assessed the scene.

The Brigade was called at 9.55pm and the fire was under control by 10.30pm. Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters from Tooting and West Norwood fire stations attended the scene.

The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

Resultingly, London Fire Brigade has issued some safety tips for smokers in the hope of preventing future fires.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "The fire was discovered by someone inside the building who could smell burning followed by hearing the smoke alarms sounding. Everyone was out of the property before the Brigade arrived.

"We'd rather you didn't smoke at all, but if you are a smoker, it's absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you've finished smoking it.

"If you don't, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life.

"This is also a reminder to test your smoke alarms. Smoke alarms give the earliest possible warning to fire, providing time to escape. You should have smoke alarms in every room where a fire could start, plus a heat alarm in the kitchen."

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