A woman has escaped from a flat fire in Deptford which was caused by an unattended candle.

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to Evelyn Street on Saturday, January 27 at 1.14pm.

Part of a flat with three rooms on the fourth floor of an 11-storey block was destroyed by the fire.

A woman left the building before firefighters arrived and no injuries were reported.

Investigators believe the fire was accidental and caused by an unattended candle.

The fire was under control shortly after 2pm.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Candles are one of the most common causes of fire. It’s really important that you never leave a candle unattended and keep them away from anything else that can easily catch alight.”

They added: “Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a flat fire on Evelyn Street in Deptford on Saturday afternoon.

“Part of a three roomed flat on the fourth floor of a 11 storey block of flats was destroyed by fire.

“One woman left the property before the Brigade arrived.

“Thankfully no injuries are reported.

“Fire investigators believed the fire was accidental and caused by an unattended candle.

“The Brigade was called at 1314 and the incident was over by 1409.

“Fire crews from Deptford, Greenwich, Lewisham and Old Kent Road were in attendance.”

London Fire Brigade has issued safety tips for those lighting candles in their homes:

  • Keep candles away from curtains, furniture and anything else that can catch fire.
  • Keep loose clothing and hair away from candles when they are lit. 
  • Always place your candles/tea lights in a suitable fire resistant candleholder.
  • Make sure the candleholder holds the candle firmly and is on a flat and stable surface to stop it falling over.