Tottenham house fire triggered by fan heater

There were no serious injuries
By Olivia Opara

Credit: LDRS

Around 25 firefighters and four fire engines were called to a fire at a house in Tottenham on Saturday, 8th October.

Part of the first floor of the house in Russell Road was destroyed by the fire, which was believed to be caused by a fan heater that was left too close to flammable materials. The fire brigade was called 3.47am and had the fire under control by 5.08am.

Fire crews from Tottenham, Stoke Newington, Holloway and Walthamstow stations were at the scene. Five people had already escaped the fire and were taken to hospital.

London Fire Brigade is warning people to take extra care if they use portable heaters, wood burners or open fires this autumn

Firefighters’ tips for using portable heaters:

Make sure heaters are well maintained and in good working order.

Check that your heater isn’t on a recall list – there have been many fires in the past year connected to heaters that have been recalled.

Never install, repair or service appliances yourself.

Keep heaters well away from clothes, curtains and furniture and never use them for drying clothes.

Always sit at least one metre away from a heater as it could set light to your clothes or chair.

Before attempting to move your heater, turn it off and allow it to cool first.

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