Southwark (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Firefighters rescued a man after a fire broke out in a maisonette on Woolstaplers Way, Bermondsey, Southwark, just after midnight on Thursday, August 7.
The fire caused damage to a portion of the first floor. The London Ambulance Service provided on-scene medical care after firemen using breathing apparatus pulled the guy from the structure.
The “unsafe use of a toaster” is thought to have been the cause of the fire, which was an accident.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:
“Avoid keeping items such as toasters under cupboards or in contact with combustible items such as tea towels or kitchen roll to prevent heat build-up.
It’s also important to make sure you keep toasters clean to help prevent fires.
Firefighters also recommend that you have a look at our online Home Fire Safety Checker to make sure there are no hidden hazards in your home.
The online tool will ask you a series of questions that will help us work out the level of risk in your home, or the home of someone you care for. It only takes a few minutes to get tailored advice to keep yourself and loved ones safe from fire.”
At 00:19, control officers responded to the first of five reports and sent firefighters from the Deptford, Dowgate, and Old Kent Road fire stations to the Southwark site. By 1:17 am, the fire had been put out.
What lessons can residents in Bermondsey learn from this recent maisonette blaze?
The fire was believed to be accidental and linked to unsafe toaster use. Residents should keep toasters and similar appliances away from flammable items like tea towels and kitchen rolls and ensure they are clean to reduce fire risk.
Firefighters emphasized safety practices, including avoiding leaving appliances unattended and maintaining appliances properly to prevent accidents.
Bermondsey has a strong sense of community where neighbors look out for each other and share safety information. This social cohesion can help disseminate fire safety tips and support residents in emergencies.