Child dies after fire at block of flats in east London

The blaze was put out by 5.18am. The LFB said six engines and about 40 firefighters attended from nearby stations. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the LFB and the Metropolitan Police.

Blocks of flats in the UK should be built to contain smoke and fire for at least two hours, allowing firefighters to extinguish the blaze before residents are impacted. 

An LFB spokesperson confirmed only the flat where the fire started was impacted by flames, but that others may have been smoke damaged

Inside Housing has asked the council whether the victim died in the flat of origin, who owned the building and who the ‘responsible person’ was – who is required to ensure it meets relevant fire standards. 

A spokesperson has confirmed it was not a council property. 

As a result, residents are typically advised to ‘stay put’ if there is a fire elsewhere in the building.

“Two adults and two children left the flat before firefighters arrived and were taken to hospital,” the LFB said in a statement. “Another man was treated at the incident by London Ambulance Service crews. Sadly, a child was pronounced dead at the scene.”

The LFB spokesperson confirmed no other rescues were carried out.

Mr Rodwell said: “We are saddened by the events that took place in the early hours of Tuesday morning and our hearts go out to everyone affected. We’re aware that some residents have lost everything including their homes and possessions.

“We would like to thank members of the London Fire Brigade, other emergency services and council staff for their support in very difficult circumstances.

“Nine properties have been affected by the fire, affecting a number of families. As a council, we have a duty of care to our residents and have supported a number of people, providing accommodation where it is needed and are providing ongoing help to the families in a number of ways.

“Sadly, we have since been informed that a resident tragically lost their life in the fire. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family as they try to process what has happened.

“London Fire Brigade have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the fire. While we await the outcome of the findings from their investigation, we will be continuing to support our residents with their needs including accommodation and emotional support.”