On the morning of Sunday, January 11, emergency services responded to a significant house fire on Sturdy Road in Peckham. The incident, which took place in a two-storey terraced house, led to extensive damage to half of the building’s ground floor.
Firefighter Response and Rescue
Firefighters received the first report of the blaze at 7:45 AM. Three fire engines and approximately 15 firefighters were dispatched from the New Cross, Peckham, and Old Kent Road stations. Remarkably, by 8:22 AM, the fire was largely brought under control.
A woman was trapped in the upper floor of the house. Firefighters used a nine-metre ladder to rescue her from a first-floor window. She was subsequently treated at the scene for smoke inhalation by the London Ambulance Service.
Cause of the Fire
The investigation indicates that the fire is being treated as accidental. Preliminary reports suggest that it may have originated from an open fire, which spread to the floorboards.
Fire Safety Recommendations
The London Fire Brigade emphasizes the importance of fire safety, particularly when using log burners and open flames. Here are some key recommendations:
- Utilize a fireguard to protect against sparks and hot embers.
- Ensure fires are under control before going to bed.
- Supervise children and pets near open flames.
- Maintain clean chimneys and flues, sweeping them at least once a year.
- Store logs at a safe distance from burners to prevent spontaneous combustion.
- Keep clothing and fabrics away from open fires.
Utilize the Home Fire Safety Checker
A spokesperson from the London Fire Brigade has urged residents to take proactive steps to minimize fire risks. The Brigade offers an online tool called the Home Fire Safety Checker. This resource allows users to assess their potential fire risks through a series of tailored questions. It only takes a few minutes and can provide crucial safety advice to protect families from fire hazards.
