Balcony fire in Portsmouth prompts smoking safety reminder with smoking one of the leading causes of fatal house fires

A safety warning has been issued following a fire on a balcony believed to have been caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.

Firefighters were called to an eight-storey apartment block on Cross Street in Portsmouth shortly after 10pm yesterday evening (May 3), where crews tackled a fire on a third-floor balcony caused by a cigarette.

Home fire safety visits were carried out at the occupant’s property, with further visits scheduled for neighbouring homes this morning following the incident. There were no reports of any injuries, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service added.

Station Manager Stu Vince said: “If you smoke, it’s absolutely vital to make sure your cigarette is completely out before you dispose of it. Something as simple as a cigarette that hasn’t been properly extinguished can quickly lead to a serious fire. Smoking materials must always be disposed of carefully and responsibly, especially in flats or properties with balconies where fire can spread rapidly.”

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service said smoking remains one of the leading causes of fatal house fires, but taking simple precautions can save lives.

Safety tips:

• Always fully extinguish cigarettes and dispose of them safely
• Smoking outside is safer, but make sure cigarettes are completely out and disposed of properly
• Use a proper ashtray that won’t tip over and allows cigarettes to be safely stubbed out
• Never leave lit cigarettes unattended

If a fire breaks out: call 999 immediately.

Picture and video by Stuart Vaisey