Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a fire at a flat above a shop on High Street in Walthamstow.

A second-floor balcony was destroyed by the blaze and part of a flat was also damaged. Around 10 people left the building before the arrival of the Brigade. There were no reports of any injuries.

The Brigade’s Fire Investigators believe the fire was caused by a fault in a tumble dryer.

Station Commander, John Carpenter who was at the scene, said: “Thanks to the quick actions of firefighters, the fire was prevented from spreading to neighbouring flats.

“Nearly one fire a day in London involves white goods and it’s vital that if any of your appliances start making a strange noise not to ignore it.

“If you think there might be a problem, always unplug it and contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.”

The Brigade’s 999 Control Officers took 11 calls to the fire.

The Brigade was called at 1834 and the fire was under control at 1924. Fire crews from Walthamstow, Leyton and Tottenham fire stations attended the scene.

Firefighters’ tips for safer whitegoods
• If your white goods start making a strange noise, don’t ignore it – if you suspect there might be a problem, always unplug it and contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.
• Check your appliances haven’t been recalled – most fires, where white goods are the source of ignition, are not down to anything you’ve done. The most important thing you can do to make sure you’re safe is to regularly check your appliances haven’t been recalled. This can be more difficult than it sounds. At the moment, you need to check the Government’s product recall site, the manufacturer’s website or Electrical Safety First’s recall register.
• Always keep your white goods in a safe place out of the way – don’t be tempted to put that freezer in the hallway. If a fire does break out in your home, you need all escape routes to be clear.
• Fit smoke and heat alarms – fit an alarm in every room where a fire could start, and make sure they are tested regularly. Find out more about smoke and heat alarms here.
• Register your appliance – by registering your appliance, you’ll be informed if the manufacturers identify any issues with the product you have bought.
• Take action for everyone – if you really want to make lasting change that could make us all safer, support our campaign today.