Two men were taken to hospital after a Lewisham flat fire believed to be started by an unattended candle.

Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters were called to the blaze at a house converted into flats on De Frene Road, Lewisham at 8.50am yesterday (Sunday, November 19).

A second floor flat was completely destroyed by the fire.

One man escaped from the building before London Fire Brigade arrived at the scene and another man was rescued by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus and a fire escape hood.

He was led to safety via a staircase inside the building.

Both men were assessed by London Ambulance Service at the scene and then taken to hospital due to suffering from smoke inhalation.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Three fire engines and around 15 firefighters were called to a fire at a house converted into flats on De Frene Road in Lewisham.

“A second floor flat was completely destroyed by fire.

“One man left the building before the Brigade arrived. 

“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used a fire escape hood to rescue another man, and lead him to safety via an internal staircase.

“Both men were assessed on scene by London Ambulance Service crews and taken to hospital suffering from smoke inhalation.

“Fire escape hoods provide members of the public with up to 15 minutes protection from four of the main fire gases (carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, hydrogen chloride and acrolein) and can be worn by conscious or unconscious people.

“If more than 15 minutes protection is required then another hood can be given to each wearer.

“They do not provide oxygen but temporarily filter toxic smoke to make breathing easier. 

“Fire investigators believe the cause of the fire is due to an unattended candle.”

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Candles, incense sticks and oil burners 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 that can easily catch fire.

“You should also ensure they are in a heat-resistant holder and placed on a stable surface so they won’t be knocked over.”

London Fire Brigade has shared tips for candle safety to avoid fires

·       Make sure you put out any candles, incense and oil burners when you leave the room and especially before bed.

·       Place candles, incense and oil burners in heat-resistant holders and placed on a stable surface where they won't be knocked over.

·       Keep them away from materials that might catch fire - that's things like curtains, furniture, clothes and hair.

·       Be aware that tea lights get very hot and without proper holders can melt through plastic surfaces like a TV or bath.

·       LED candles can be a great alternative - they're safe even if you fall asleep or forget to blow them out.

The Brigade was called at 0850 and the incident was over by 0949. Fire crews from Forest Hill, Beckenham, Lewisham fire stations.