Fire brigade issues warning about charging electrical items after toy car bursts into flames in New Cross

London Fire Brigade was called to a fire at 11.03 pm December 4 at Dundalk Road.

Experts from the brigade have found a remote control car burst into flames because it was being charged with the wrong charger.

An adult and child who were asleep at the time were saved from serious injury by the sound of their smoke alarm.

Fire investigator watch manager, Owen Neale, said: "Fortunately, this family were woken by their smoke alarm sounding, but people should never leave items on charge over night or when they are sleeping.

"As with all rechargeable electrical equipment, it's vitally important parents make sure the correct type of charger is used to prevent fires which can be serious and could even result in death."

As a result of this, London Fire Brigade has issued an urgent warning to parents to use the correct type of chargers when using electrical equipment.

Watch manager Neale added: "Although one charger might work with mulitple electrical items, it may be of a higher voltage or current than recommended for your device.

"It is crucial people only use genuine chargers supplied by the manufacturer with their electrical goods.

"Repeated use with the wrong charger can out significant pressure on the charging system, putting you and your family at risk of a serious fire in your home."