Firefighters have issued a smoking safety warning after a fire broke out at a block of flats.

Part of the balcony of a 14th floor flat was damaged by fire and smoke in Kingsway, North Finchley, on August 28 at 12.45am.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “If you're a smoker it’s absolutely vital you 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.”

Safety advice for smokers:

• Make sure you have smoke alarms fitted in every room you regularly use in your home including in the hallways.

• Never smoke in bed.

• Always ensure you stub out cigarettes properly and dispose of them carefully.

• Keep matches and lighters out of children's reach.

• Never leave lit cigarettes or cigars unattended.

• Empty ashtrays carefully, ensuring all smoking materials are stubbed out and cold.

• If you must smoke, do it outdoors.