Firefighters rushed to a Forest Hill flat on the second floor after a fire broke out, rescuing three children from the blaze. Shockingly, the flat had no working smoke alarms installed, putting the children at serious risk.
The brave crews, equipped with breathing gear, pulled the children to safety. The London Ambulance Service treated the children at the scene before taking them to hospital as a precaution. One adult had already escaped the flat before firefighters arrived.
Station Manager Clinton Walsh criticised the absence of smoke alarms, stating: “Everyone should have multiple smoke alarms fitted in their property and a heat alarm in the kitchen to warn of fires early.”
The fire was reported at 11:21am and was brought under control by 12:09pm. Four fire engines and 21 firefighters from Forest Hill, Lewisham, Beckenham, and West Norwood stations worked together to battle the flames.
The blaze is believed to have started accidentally when a halogen heater ignited clothing on a drying airer.
This incident serves as a stark reminder to ensure homes are equipped with proper smoke and heat alarms. Early detection can save lives and prevent tragedies like this one.
Originally published by UKNIP.
