Major fire in Greenwich building tackled by 70 firefighters
Unsafe smoking disposal led to rooftop garden blaze
Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters responded to a fire at a mixed-use building on Laban Walk in Greenwich this morning (Tuesday 28th July).
The fire, which destroyed a decking area in a rooftop garden, prompted the evacuation of approximately 50 residents from the building’s 9th, 10th, and 11th floors.
Thankfully, there were no reports of injuries.
Station Commander Jeremy Davies commended the firefighters for their swift action in controlling the fire and ensuring resident safety.
The Brigade deployed a 64-metre turntable ladder to manage the fire from height and provide an aerial assessment for tactical decisions.
Cordons were put in place as a safety measure, and residents were advised to avoid the area.
The fire is believed to have started accidentally due to improper disposal of smoking materials.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson stressed the importance of ensuring cigarettes are fully extinguished to prevent fires and urged the public to use the Brigade’s online Home Fire Safety Checker for potential hazards.
Control Officers were alerted to the fire at 05:03 and mobilised teams from local stations including Deptford, Greenwich, and New Cross.
The fire was declared under control by 05:57.