St Raph's draws together in solidarity to pay tribute to the victims of the terrible fire that tore through two houses and left four dead

 The St Raphael's community along with others from Brent, including councillors, attended a vigil last night for the vicitims of the fire that has devasted the whole community.

With dignity and empathy, tribute was paid and prayers made. The community quietly drew together in solidarity in the face of tragedy, as the evening light gave way to darkness and the rain fell.

 

I was unable to attend due to a zoom meeting at the same time, so thank you Asif for the photographs of an event that really shows Brent at its best.
 

 

TONIGHT St Raphael's Community Vigil to pay respects to the victims of the fire tragedy - 9.30pm Pitfield Way

 Dear brothers and sisters,

We invite you to join us for a community vigil todayTuesday 27th May 2025, at 9:30 PM, outside  Dar Al Ilm (St Raphs Mosque),  on the parade of shops near Ngee's - 158 Pitfield Way, London, NW10 0TW.

We will be honoured by the presence of local community leaders and residents of St Raphs whom will say a few words and give us all the opportunity to pay our respects to the victims of this awful tragedy.

Together, we will make collective dua/prayer for the beautiful souls who have left our community and for those who survived the tragic fire at Tillet Close on Saturday 24th May 2025.

Following the prayers, we will walk as a community to the site of the incident. Should anyone wish to place flowers or messages for the affected families, you will have the opportunity to do so.

Your presence and prayers will be a source of immense comfort and support during this difficult time.

Jazakallahu Khairan

Thank You

If you have any queries please contact
Asif Zamir 07950 99 44 11
Ahad Saroya 07852 371 082

Victims of St Raphael's house fire named

Condolences to everyone affected affected by the terrible St Raphael's fire. The Metropolitan Police have issued the following update:

The four people who died following a house fire in Brent have been named.

Met officers were called to assist the London Fire Brigade at the fire in Tillett Close, Stonebridge at 01:22hrs on Saturday, 24 May.

Sadly, a woman and her three children died at the scene.

Detectives have named them as Nusrat Usman, 43, Maryam Mikaiel, 15, Musa Usman, 8, and Raees Usman, 4.

A woman in her 70s was taken to hospital but has since been released. A 13-year-old girl remains in hospital in a critical condition.

Superintendent Steve Allen, from the Met's local policing team in north-west London, said:

Our thoughts go out to all those impacted by what has happened.

Specialist officers are continuing to support the wider family who have asked for privacy at this deeply upsetting time.

Local officers are working closely with officers from the Specialist Crime Command on what continues to be a very complex investigation.

I’d like to thank the members of public, our first responding officers and colleagues from other emergency services for their efforts during this highly pressurised and distressing incident.

Equally, we appreciate this has affected the wider community who have been extremely supportive. You will see extra officers in the area during the coming days and some of the cordons will remain in place.

We are grateful for your patience and understanding. If you have any concerns then please speak to them.”

A 41-year-old man was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident. He has since been bailed and was subsequently detained under the Mental Health Act.

Anyone with information that could assist our investigation is asked to call 101 giving the reference 509/24MAY.

Information can also be shared anonymously, with the independent charity Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111.

 

St. Raphael's Estate Mourns: A Community Shattered by Unimaginable Loss

 The St Raphael's community in happier times celebrating the Queen's Jubilee

 

Guest post by Asif Zamir, St Raphs Legacy Project, St Raphael's Voice

The air on St. Raphael's Estate today hangs heavy with an unbearable sorrow. News travels fast in a close-knit community, but some news hits harder than others. Yesterday's devastating fire in St Raphs Estate which sits on the edge of the Stonebridge Ward close to Wembley, claimed the lives of a mother and her three beloved children, and has sent deep shockwaves of grief directly through the heart of St. Raphs.

"There are no words to ease such profound pain, but please know the community mourns with you", echoed the sentiments felt by countless residents. This isn't just a distant tragedy; it's a loss that strikes at the very core of who we are. Today, the St. Raphael's community lost a sister and three innocent children. The raw emotion, the disbelief, the sheer agony of it all is palpable on every street corner and every doorstep.

Residents are struggling to come to terms with the unthinkable. Conversations are hushed, faces are drawn, and tears flow freely. Many recall the happy memories of seeing the family around the estate, at the mosque and community centre their presence a familiar and cherished part of daily life. Now, that presence is gone, leaving an unfillable void. The laughter of children, the everyday greetings, the shared moments – all tragically cut short.

And the devastation doesn't end there. Our hearts also go out to the next-door neighbours, a family who also lost their home in this horrific blaze. Beyond the profound grief for those who perished, there is the added burden of displacement, of seeing one's sanctuary reduced to ashes. The emotional toll of such a loss, coupled with the immediate uncertainty of where to go and how to rebuild, is immense. The St. Raphael's community extends its deepest sympathy and unwavering support to all those now facing the daunting task of finding new shelter and piecing their lives back together.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family, whose world has been irrevocably shattered.

As a community, we stand together in this moment of profound sorrow. While we can't mend broken hearts, we can offer unwavering support, a listening ear, and a collective embrace. The devastation is immense, but the strength of the St. Raphael's community, in its shared grief and unwavering compassion, will undoubtedly shine through as we navigate these dark days together.

BREAKING: Man arrested after St Raphael's fire in which a woman and three children died

From Metropolitan Police

An investigation is under way following the deaths of four people in a house fire in Brent.

Met officers were called to assist the London Fire Brigade at the fire in Tillett Close, Stonebridge, at 01:22hrs on Saturday, 24 May.

Sadly, four people, a 43-year-old woman, and three children – a 15-year-old girl, an eight-year-old boy, and a four-year-old boy – died at the scene.

Their next-of-kin have been informed and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

A further two people – a woman in her 70s and a teenage girl – were taken to hospital by the London Ambulance Service. We await an update on their conditions.

A 41-year-old man was arrested at the scene in connection with the incident and remains in custody.

Superintendent Steve Allen, from the Met's local policing team in north-west London, said:

This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are with everyone involved.

Officers arrested a man at the scene and we continue to work alongside investigators from the London Fire Brigade to establish the cause of the fire. Emergency services will remain in Tillett Close throughout the day as these enquiries take place.

Anyone with information that could assist our investigation is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 509/24May.

Information can also be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111.

Muhammed Butt, Leader of Brent Council, responding to the tragic news said:

Last night London Fire Brigade responded to a house fire on Tillett Close in Stonebridge, which tragically claimed the lives of four people.

Our deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers are with the families and friends of those who lost their lives in this horrific incident.

The council has set up a rest centre nearby and a dedicated team has been looking after families who needed to be evacuated. We will continue to support those affected.

We are working closely with the London Fire Brigade and the Metropolitan Police as they conduct their investigations into the cause of the fire, and will continue to offer them our full support and assistance.

London Fire Brigade said:

 Sadly, four people have died following a fire on Tillett Close, Stonebridge. 
 
Eight fire engines and around 70 firefighters were deployed to the scene. Two terraced houses, each consisting of three floors, were severely damaged by the fire. Four people left the properties before the Brigade arrived. All were assessed on scene by the London Ambulance Service, and two were taken to hospital for further treatment. 
 
 A woman and a child were rescued from the second floor of one property by crews wearing breathing apparatus and received immediate emergency care. Both were sadly declared deceased at the scene by a Helicopter Emergency Services (HEMS) team. Two more children were discovered inside the property as crews carried out firefighting operations and were declared deceased at the scene. 
 
The Brigade received the first of over 20 calls reporting the fire at 0113, and crews from Wembley, Park Royal, Willesden and surrounding fire stations were mobilised to the scene. Crews were able to bring the fire under control by 0324. 
 
The cause of the fire is under investigation by officers from the Brigade’s Fire Investigation Unit and the Metropolitan Police Service. 
 
Assistant Commissioner Keeley Foster said

This is an extremely tragic incident, and the thoughts of everyone across the Brigade are with those impacted by this incident.  
 

Upon arrival, firefighters were met with a well-developed fire, involving two adjoining properties. Crews immediately set to work carrying out firefighting operations in order to bring the incident under control.  
 

Sadly, a woman and three children have died as a result of this fire. Crews wearing breathing apparatus were able to rescue the woman and one of the children from the second floor, but they were later declared deceased at the scene. A further two children were discovered to have died in the fire, as crews carried out a search of the properties involved. 
 

Our specialist Fire Investigation Unit are working closely with colleagues from the Metropolitan Police Service to now determine the cause of this fire.
 

We are working closely with our partners to support the community at this very sad time.
 

London Fire Brigade: Urgent warning after London homes gutted and two dogs killed less than 24 hours apart in e-bike and e-scooter fires

 From London Fire Brigade

Two London homes have been destroyed in separate fires involving an e-bike and e-scooter less than 24 hours apart.

The first fire happened at around 10.30am on Monday (3 February) when the battery on a charging e-scooter burst into flames at a house on Barlow Road in West Hampstead. The fire quickly spread across the ground floor and up the stairs and eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters were dispatched to put out the blaze. Thankfully no one was hurt but a dog was sadly later found dead inside the property.

 

Then on Monday night, at around 2.35am (4 February), the battery pack on a second-hand converted e-bike at a house on Bridlepath Way in Feltham caught alight. Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were sent to the scene but the fire had already spread through much of the property once firefighters arrived. Four people left the house before firefighters arrived, including one via a window, with two of the occupants taken to hospital. Meanwhile, crews were able to rescue two dogs trapped in a room. A third dog that was inside the property was sadly discovered deceased.

 

Both fires are believed to have been caused by the catastrophic failures of lithium batteries for an e-scooter and e-bike. The incidents are yet another example of why the Brigade has been running its #ChargeSafe campaign, with e-bikes and e-scooters becoming one of the capital’s fastest-growing fire risks.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Richard Field, said: “It cannot be underestimated the level of destruction each of these fires have caused with both homes completely damaged by fire and smoke.

“It’s extremely fortunate that no people have been seriously hurt but a dog was sadly found dead at the scene of each fire.

“Both of these fires were caused by catastrophic battery failures. When these batteries fail, they can cause ferocious fires, and the consequences can be devastating. We urge people who own these devices to follow the safety advice that will help to protect those around them and their properties."

 

 

The e-bike at the house in Feltham had been converted from a normal pedal cycle and been purchased second-hand. It was on charge in the living room and a generic charger was in use.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Field continued: “E-bikes and e-scooters are a green and sustainable way to travel around our city. However, they can pose a significant fire risk, if not properly cared for, this is particularly true for the batteries used to power them which have become one of London's fastest-growing fire risks.

“From our investigations, we know many of the fires we’ve attended have involved second-hand vehicles or a bike that was been modified using parts bought online. At this time, there is not the same level of regulation of products for e-bikes and e-scooters sold via online marketplaces or auction sites when compared to high street shops, so we can’t be confident that products meet the correct safety standard. We understand that people are trying to save money, but if you spot a deal that looks too be good to be true, it probably is.

 

In 2024, London Fire Brigade recorded 142 fires involving e-bikes along with 29 e-scooters. This means that on average, there was an e-bike or e-scooter fire once every other day.

Three people have died in fires caused by e-bike battery failures in London since 2023 and more than 100 people have been hurt.

Safety tips for e-bike and e-scooter users to follow  

• Never block your escape route with anything, including e-bikes and e-scooters. Store them somewhere away from a main through route. Our advice is to store these items in a safe external location if possible, such as a garage or a shed. 
• Always use the correct charger and buy an official one from a reputable seller. 
• Do not attempt to modify or tamper with your battery. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.  
• Converting pedal bikes into e-bikes using DIY kits bought online can be very dangerous. They pose a higher risk of fire. Get a professional to carry out the conversion and make sure to buy a battery from a reputable seller and that it is not second-hand.  
• Check your battery and charger meets UK safety standards.  We have particular concern where batteries have been purchased from online marketplaces and when they've been sourced on the internet, which may not meet the correct safety standards.  
• Watch out for signs that the battery or charger aren’t working as they should – e.g. if the battery is hot to the touch or has changed shape.  
• Let the battery cool before charging. Batteries can get warm during their use and it is advisable to allow them to cool down before attempting to re-charge as they could be more susceptible to failure if overheated. If you are charging batteries indoors, please follow our advice on safe charging. 
• Unplug your charger once it’s finished charging. Always follow manufacturers’ instructions when charging and we would advise not to leave it unattended or while people are asleep.
• Fit alarms where you charge. Ensure you have smoke alarms fitted in areas where e-bikes or e-scooters are being charged and make sure they are tested regularly. You can quickly and easily check your home by visiting our free online home fire safety checker tool

 

'We rescued a dozen people from the Kilburn Job Centre fire.' claim locals. Premises still wide open to intruders.

 

A gaping hole in the Job Centre wall at 4.30pm today

 

I went to  site of the fire at the disused Kilburn Job Centre this afternoon and found the Cambridge Avenue side of the building open to the elements - and any intruders. It was burnt out except for a table and the twisted metal guards that had been torn down.

A security guard hung around while I was taking photographs and I was approached by an onlooker, Jamie.

Jamie told me that he and his friends Ezra and DJ had seen the building was on fire and rushed in to get people out. He had given their names to a newspaper reporter but their account had not been published:

'We didn't stop to think we just ran ino the building. There were six people on the ground floor, four on the first floor, and two at the top.  They didn't hang around, they just scarpered, because it's arson isn't it?  By the time the para medics came they were mostly gone.

My throat hurt from the smoke. My mate told me that I should have got a wet towel and wrapped it around my face but we acted on impulse -  I wasn't going to waste time my searching for a towel and water, was I?'

The hole is just yards from the bus stop and passengers stopped to look when they alighted. It is quite a sight:

At the back of the building, in Coventry Close, it appears that work has been done to keep out intruders and squatters, although doesn't make much sense when Cambridge Avenue is wide open. Perhaps the contractor did not know about the other entrance...

 

Attempts at securing the building

Abandoned belongings indicate a hasty exit

The side of the building (above) looks less secure as does what appears to be a first floor balcony (below)

 

Having  escaped what could have been fatalities in the fire, though not responsible for the building, I understand that Brent Council is now contacting the owners with more energy than hitherto. They had been warned several times by residents over many years.

I hope the Council thanks Jamie, Ezra and DJ.

Two sides of Brent as community mount a fire rescue and a woman dies in a shooting

 It was a real mixed 'Brent weekend' with the community coming  together to save people from a serious fire in Willesden LINK and the dreadful news of a female dying in a fatal shooting in Harlesden LINK. Our thanks go out to the life savers in Willesden and our sympathy to the family and friends of the Harlesden victim.

My thanks to Michael Roberts of the Michael Styles hair salon in High Road, Willesden for permission to publish the videos he posted on Next Door and other social media:  first hand account of the rescue and the struggle to get help for a hearing impaired man in the aftermath.

 

Michael Roberts has set up a Funding page for Albert to help him get back on his feet.

Public, police and fire brigade mount rescue at Willesden High Road shop fire

Credit: Metropolitan Police

From Metropolitan Police

The bravery of two police officers, along with members of the public, has been lauded after they entered a burning building in Willesden High Road  to rescue occupants who were inside.

The incident unfolded at around 13:10hrs on Friday, 13 December after emergency services were called to reports of a fire in a three-storey building on High Road , NW10.

Officers were quickly on scene and immediately recognised the dangerous situation unfolding in front of them with smoke billowing from windows and reports of people still inside a flat on the first floor.

Two officers, along with members of the public, entered the building and made their way up to the first floor. They directed residents out of the building but were alerted to a man who was trapped in an upstairs flat. Utilising a ladder located in a courtyard area at the back of the building, a member of the public managed to break a window and help the man escape.

Thankfully no-one was seriously injured although three residents and one of the officers, who is aged in his 20s, were taken to hospital for treatment due to the effects of smoke inhalation. One officer remains in hospital and all are expected to make a full recovery.

The officers are being supported following the ordeal.

Commander Paul Trevers said: 

 

The actions of these officers exemplifies the qualities that runs through the core of our officers in the Met police – bravery, tenacity and above all a desire to keep the public safe when faced with danger.

Confronted with a terrifying situation and knowing that people were at risk they did not hesitate in going into that building to protect the lives of others. I am immensely proud of their actions as I’m sure all Londoners will be.

I would also like to praise the courage of the members of the public who, alongside our officers, helped ensure the safety of those inside the building.

 

Credit: London Fire Brigade

From London Fire Brigade

Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled a fire at a shop with flats above on Willesden High Road. 

Part of the ground floor and a small part of the ceiling void between the ground and first floors were alight. Firefighters rescued two people from a roof using a short extension ladder. Five further people left the property before the Brigade arrived and were taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews.

The Brigade's 32-metre turntable ladder was used at the scene as an observation platform. 

Station Commander Chucks Abili, who was at the scene, said: 

Crews worked hard to access the voids and bring the fire under control.

The fire was producing heavy smoke, so we advised local residents keep their windows and doors closed.

Willesden High Road was closed between Bertie Road and Hawthorn Road and we encouraged people to avoid the area during the afternoon, particularly as rush hour approached.

The Brigade's Control Officers took the first of eight calls to the fire at 1308 and mobilised crews from West Hampstead, Park Royal, North Kensington, Kentish Town and Wembley fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 1521.

 

Octavia Housing update on Wembley fire at Petworth Court, Elm Road

 On Monday 29 January 2024, a fire broke out at Petworth Court on Elm Road, Wembley. The London Fire Brigade attended quickly and the fire was extinguished in the early hours of Tuesday 30 January 2024. All residents at Petworth Court were evacuated safely and we are glad that no injuries have been reported. The surrounding blocks were also evacuated.

The Fire Brigade is currently investigating the cause of the fire and we will continue to work with them during their investigation.

Fire safety at Petworth Court

The safety of our residents is our number one priority. Since 2020, Petworth Court, and the surrounding blocks, have had robust safety measures in place in the event of a fire. These measures include a fire marshall who patrols the blocks regularly, upgraded fire alarms and CCTV. We are pleased that these measures worked effectively, ensuring that alarms were raised quickly and all residents were evacuated safely.

Supporting our residents

Octavia staff have been on site with Brent Council’s Emergency Response team since the fire broke out, to support residents that have been affected. All evacuated residents were provided with emergency accommodation where needed and financial support has been offered to those who need to buy essential items and food. We have continued to contact all residents to check on their wellbeing.

Following safety checks by the Fire Brigade and Octavia, residents of Goodwood Court, Sandringham Court and Kensington Court should be able to return home within the next few days. We will continue to support these residents should they have any questions or concerns.

Residents at Petworth Court, Woburn Court and Hatfield Court, will continue to be updated, and supported with alternative accommodation and access to services, wellbeing support and essential items until they are able to return to their home safely.

We understand this is a difficult time for residents. Any resident who would like to speak to us should contact us on 020 8354 5500 or contact their Housing Lead:

'No working fire alarms' at 21 storey Wembley Park tower block that caught fire at the weekend

 There was a fire in a 21 storey block in Wembley Park at the weekend, not far from Wembbley Stadium. It is very concerning that the block had no working fire alarms.

 

 London Fire Bridge Press Release

 Five fire engines and around 35 firefighters were called to a fire at a block of flats on Fulton Road in Wembley.

A small part of a first floor flat in a 21 storey building was destroyed by fire.

 

Fire investigators found the property didn't have working smoke alarms and the fire was most likely caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials. 

 

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:

 

This incident shows just how vital it is to have working smoke alarms.  It's also a timely reminder for smokers to ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it. If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life.

 

 

Smoking safety top tips

• It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
• Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on arm chairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.
• Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
• Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.

 

The Brigade was called at 1805 and the fire was under control by 2034. Fire crews from Wembley, Park Royal and Stanmore fire stations were in attendance.

 

A spokesperson for Quintain Ltd  said:

I can confirm this was not a Quintain building, nor is it managed by Quintain Living.

This fire came after one in South Kilburn on Friday  which again had no working fire alarms:

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a fire at a maisonette on Stafford Road in Kilburn.

The whole of the fourth floor of a split level maisonette was destroyed by fire. 

Fire investigators found the property didn't have working smoke alarms and the fire was most likely caused by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials. 

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said

This incident shows just how vital it is to have working smoke alarms.  

It's also a timely reminder for smokers to ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it.

If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life.

Smoking safety top tips

• It's safer to smoke outside, but make sure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of properly.
• Never smoke in bed, and avoid smoking on arm chairs and sofas – especially if you think you might fall asleep.
• Take extra care when you’re tired, taking prescription drugs or if you’ve been drinking alcohol.
• Use proper ashtrays, which can’t tip over and stub cigarettes out properly.

The Brigade was called at 2118 and the incident was over by 2246. Fire crews from Paddington, North Kensington, West Hampstead and Kentish Town fire stations were in attendance.

Tinder box danger exposed by vegetation fire on Barn Hill. Fire chief backs ban on disposable barbecues.

 

Tree damage by fire

 The proximity of the fire to garden fence

Charred tree trunks
 

Timely action by the Fire Brigade prevented a vegetation fire on Barn Hill from spreading to the garden fence of a nearby property. The fire was during the recent hot period a day before the 'Extreme Heat' warning days.

The family at the property were out at the time but fortunately  the alarm was raised by neighbours preventing any serious damage.

Wembley Matters asked the Brent Fire Brigade for any information they have on the cause of the fire. It has been suggested that wood had been dumped on the site in addition to fallen trees.

The London Fire Brigade responded:

 

Our fire investigators wouldn’t be sent to a small fire like this so we don’t have any details on the cause.

 

Firefighters were called to bushes and trees alight on Barn Hill in Wembley on 18 July.

 

The Brigade was called at 1954 and the fire was under control by 2018. One fire engine from Willesden Fire Station attended the scene.

 

The fire highlights the potential for serious outbreaks on Barn Hill and Fryent Country Park given the extremely dry vegetation.  Warnings have been issued on social media about the danger of dumped fuel from disposable barbecues igniting grass.  

 

 

The London Fire Commisioner has highlighted the need for the banning of  disposable barbecues and issued this statement:

London’s Fire Commissioner is calling for a total ban on disposable barbecues following one of the busiest weeks in our history.

The call comes ahead of a possible second summer heatwave and an unprecedented number of large grassland fires London’s firefighters worked in tough conditions to tackle last week. New statistics show that week commencing Monday, 18 July the Brigade received 8,302 calls and attended 3,231 incidents. In addition:

• Firefighters attended more than 1,000 fires.
• The number of 999 calls received was more than double taken for the same period last year.
• Thirty-four grass fires required an attendance of four fire engine and above.

Significant fire risk

Disposable barbecues pose a significant fire risk if they are not put out properly, causing grass fires in open spaces and scorching the grassed areas. The dry spell has left grassland like a tinderbox and increases the chances of a fire caused by a disposable barbecue

We are also reiterating that people should not barbecue on balconies and during this exceptional dry spell Londoners should not have any barbecues or open fires in parks and public spaces.

London’s Fire Commissioner Andy Roe has already written to local authorities asking for a temporary ban on the use of barbecues in all public parks and open spaces. We're very grateful to councils which put bans in public places but now feels disposable barbecues need to be taken off the shelves needed to help prevent widespread blazes like last Tuesday.

Retailers, including Waitrose and Aldi, have announced they will no longer stock disposable barbecues because of the detrimental impact they have on the environment and wildlife.

Back ban petition 

Disposable barbecues also pose a health risk and heat can be retained for many hours after a barbeque has been put out. The Brigade is backing a petition set up by Toby Tyler whose son Will was severely burned by a disposable barbecue. The petition can be found here https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/618664.

Commissioner Roe said: “Despite our grass fire warnings, we’ve still seen some people behaving carelessly and recklessly. On Saturday (23^rd July) firefighters prevented a serious blaze at Wanstead Flats caused using a disposable barbecue. We need urgent action now to see a national ban on the sale of disposable barbecues. They can be bought for as little as five pounds and can cause untold damage, especially when the grass is as dry as it has been over the last few weeks.

“Last week is another example of how we are increasingly being challenged by new extremes of weather as our climate changes and we’re developing long-term strategies to deal with more incidents like this in the future.”

Grass fire prevention tips: 

• Don’t drop cigarettes or anything that is burning on dry ground. 
• Don’t drop cigarettes out of car windows - they may land on dry grass by the roadside.  
• Don’t have barbecues in parks and public spaces.
• Do not barbecue on balconies, the wind may carry smouldering ash towards nearby grassland.  
• Be aware that children, animals, balls or anything else may knock over barbecues, increasing the risk of grass fires, especially when in a busy parks or public spaces. 

 

Wembley Fire - 50 people evacuated before Fire Brigade arrived

 From London Fire Brigade

 

Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters tackled a fire on The Broadway in Wembley.

Half of the ground floor of a shop with flats above was alight. Part of the ground floor of a neighbouring shop was also alight, along with outbuildings at the rear of the properties. Around 50 people were evacuated before the Brigade arrived.

Seventeen gas cylinders were cooled and removed as a precaution as some can explode when exposed to heat.

The Brigade's 999 Control Officers took more than 40 calls to the blaze.

The Brigade was called at 1409 and the fire was under control by 1823. Fire crews from Ealing, Wandsworth, Poplar, Mill Hill, Tooting and surrounding fire stations attended the scene.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

 

Wembley High Road/Ealing Road closure after fire - AVOID AREA

 From Brent Police

 Please be aware there are road closures in WEMBLEY HIGH ROAD / EALING ROAD due to a fire, there are no serious casualties, road closures will likely be in place till 7PM tonight while we make the area safe, please avoid the area as there will be an increase of traffic.

 

How many disabled people are living in fear in Brent's high rises after Grenfell?

As the number of high rises proliferate throughout Brent and the cladding issue in many tower blocks unresolved, even as the horrors of Grenfell are relived through the current Inquiry, it is worth thinking about the situation of people with a disability in such buildings.

The London Fire Brigade has said that disabled people should not be placed in any accommodation above the 4th floor. One of the fatalities at Grenfell was a woman who had been told by Kensington and Chelsea Council that she would not be housed above the 4th floor, but tragically, she was.

A disabled pensioner in a Brent Council block has approached Wembley Matters to tell us about his situation. 

Since Grenfell he has asked the council to rehouse him on a lower floor and in response they have asked him why he accepted a flat in a South Kilburn high rise above the 4th floor way back in April, 1993.

They have also lost the record of the PEEP (Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan) that he had sent them and demanded proof that he was disabled despite the council's own OT team assessing him last year and installing a wet room and sit down shower as a result. He thinks that this action, in itself, is proof of his mobility needs.

He remarked that the council had found homes for nearly 900 students but had told him that they had no spare home to offer him. A different case of course, and a private provider,  but it clearly rankles.

The resident could see Grenfell from his tower block his tower block as he wrote his email to Wembley Matters and reflected that there had been two fires in his block during his tenancy and he had not known about them until he smelt the smoke. His neighbours and fire officers had shouted warnings to leave the building but he had not heard them because of the hearing impairment he has on top of his mobility problem.

He asks how many other disabled people are living in fear of fire in Brent's high rises in the shadow of the Grenfell disaster?

A good question, deserving of an answer.