Fresh Candle Safety Warning Issued After Christmas Fire Incidents Across London

Londoners are being urged to take extra care with candles after a series of house fires over the Christmas period, which emergency services believe were caused by unattended flames.

London Fire Brigade said several incidents were reported across the capital in just a few days. On Saturday evening, a woman was taken to hospital following a fire at a home in Edmonton, where firefighters believe a lit candle was left unattended.

The warning follows two further fires on Christmas Day, including a blaze at a property in Hayes, where 25 firefighters were called to tackle the flames. Another fire was reported the same day at a house in Croydon. No serious injuries were reported in those incidents, but significant damage was caused.

Earlier, on Christmas Eve, around 40 firefighters attended a fire at a maisonette in Peckham. Two adults were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation, and investigators later said the fire was also likely started by a candle.

Fire officials said candles are a common cause of accidental fires during the festive season, when homes are often decorated and people are distracted by celebrations. They warned that even a short period of inattention can lead to flames spreading quickly to furniture, curtains or Christmas decorations.

The London Fire Brigade is advising residents to never leave candles burning unattended, to keep them well away from flammable materials, and to ensure they are fully extinguished before leaving a room or going to sleep. Battery powered alternatives were also recommended as a safer option.

Firefighters said the recent incidents should serve as a reminder that simple precautions can prevent serious injuries and potentially save lives.