Firefighters have issued a safety warning for burning incense sticks after a fire at a hostel on Highbury Grove Court in Islington yesterday evening.
Part of a two roomed flat on the fourth floor in the five storey building was damaged by the fire. The Brigade’s fire investigators believe the fire was caused by a burning incense stick being left unattended.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Candles, incense and oil burners are one of the most common causes of fire in the home. It’s really important that you never leave them unattended and keep them away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can easily catch fire.”
Top candle, incense and oil burner safety tips
- Always use a heat resistant holder on a stable surface, which won’t be knocked over
- Tea lights can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath
- Keep items away from materials that may catch fire such as curtains, furniture, clothes and hair
- Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed
Thirty people left the building before the Brigade arrived. Fortunately, no injuries are reported.
The Brigade was called at 1810 and the fire was under control by 1921. Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers from Islington, Holloway, Shoreditch and Stoke Newington fire stations were at the scene.
