London

Smoking likely to blame for London fire that left 2 people without a place to live

Two people are left without a place to live after a fire that officials say likely started from improperly discarded smoking material.

Damage in the two units is pegged at around $100,000, fire officials say

Fire crews climb a ladder at a house on fire.
A fire on Clarence Street was likely caused by an improperly discarded cigarette. (Supplied by London Fire Department)

Two people are left without a place to live after a fire that officials say likely started from an improperly discarded cigarette. 

"Crews arrived on scene to see heavy smoke pushing out the windows and made a fantastic offensive attack and were able to knock the fire down quite quickly," said London Fire platoon chief Colin Shewell. 

The fire was in a multi-unit residence on Clarence Street just north of Horton Street, steps away from the Central fire hall on Horton Street. 

"We're looking at about $100,000 in heavy smoke damage in two separate residences," Shewell added. 

One person in each of the two units were not able to return home after the fire. 

"At this point in the investigation, this appears to be accidental in nature, possibly improper discarding of smoking materials. It's a great reminder to make sure if you're smoking, do it outside and make sure all cigarettes are extinguished if you're ever leaving the room or residence," the platoon chief said. 

The Red Cross is helping one of the people displaced, he added.