Flat fire in Hornsey

Firefighters have issued a candle safety warning after a fire at a Hornsey flat on Saturday night.

A second floor flat on Mount View Road was badly damaged by the fire. One man left the property before the Brigade arrived. He was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation by London Ambulance Service crews.

The Brigade’s fire investigators believe it was accidental and caused by an unattended candle.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “It’s really important that you never leave candles unattended and keep them away from anything that could catch fire such as curtains, furniture or clothes.

“We recommend swapping traditional candles for LED flameless ones as they are much safer, but if you do use real candles, follow our simple safety tips.”

The Brigade was called at 9:03pm and the fire was under control by 10:17pm. Fire crews from Hornsey, Finchley, Stoke Newington and Kentish Town fire stations were at the scene.

Candle safety tips

• Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.

• These items should always be held firmly in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won’t be knocked over.

• Keep them away from materials that might catch fire – that’s things like curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.

• Be aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.

• To avoid accidents keep candles and other naked flames out of reach of children and pets.