House fire in Acton caused by smoker

Larden Road, Acton; Google Streetview

Fire destroyed half a loft converstion

London Fire Brigade say a house fire in Acton in the early hours of this morning (Friday 19 September) was caused by a smoker.

Half of the loft conversion of a mid-terraced house in Larden Road was damaged by a fire which they say was started by the “unsafe disposal of smoking materials”.

The Brigade’s Control Officers were called at 0423 and mobilised crews from Acton, Hammersmith, Chiswick and Ealing fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 05.18. There were no reports of any injuries.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:

“If you’re 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.

“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.”

London Fire Brigade safety tips for smokers

• Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.

• Don’t leave lit cigarettes unattended.

• It’s safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.

• Don’t balance cigars or cigarettes on the edge of an ashtray, or anything else – they can tip and fall as they burn away and cause a fire.

• Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.

• Always empty ashtrays carefully. Make sure smoking materials are out, cold and preferably wet them before throwing into a bin – never use a wastepaper basket

READ ALSO: Family lucky to escape house fire in Hammersmith

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