Stray Firework Causes House Blaze in Perivale

London fire brigade issue urge everyone to attend organised displays

( photos courtesy London Fire Brigade)

A stray firework caused a house fire in Perivale on Saturday night.

Six fire engines and 35 firefighters and officers were called to the mid terrace house in Devon Close.

The fire is believed to have started after a firework landed on two gazeebo structures in the rear garden, before the blaze spread to the ground and first floors of the house. Two adjoining properties also sustained damage.

A total of six people left the properties before the arrival of the Brigade. There were no reports of any injuries.

Charlie Pugsley, head of the Brigade’s fire investigation team, said: “This incident shows just how dangerous fireworks can be and why it is essential that you should always follow the firework safety code.

“With Bonfire Night just days away, we recommend that you go to an organised firework display rather than setting off fireworks at home.

“Fireworks are explosives and can be extremely dangerous and it is just fortunate nobody was hurt in this incident.”

London Fire Brigade is urging people to attend organised displays this bonfire night

Firework safety code

• Only buy fireworks marked with the British Standard Kitemark BS7114
• Don't drink alcohol if setting off fireworks 
• Keep fireworks in a closed box and always follow the instructions carefully when using them
• Light them at arms length using a taper and stand well back
• Never go back to them once they are lit. Even if a firework hasn't gone off, it could still explode
• Never throw fireworks and never put them in your pocket
• Respect your neighbours – don’t let off fireworks late at night and remember there are laws to follow
• Take care with sparklers – never give them to children under five. Even when they have gone out they are still hot so put sparklers in a bucket of water after use
• Keep your pets indoors throughout the evening

The Brigade was called at 2213 and the fire was under control at 0144. Fire crews from Wembley, Northolt, Acton, Ealing, Park Royal and Southall fire stations attended the scene.

• To find your local organised firework display, visit http://www.london-fire.gov.uk/firework-displays-in-london.asp

31st October 2016