Escape hoods used by firefighters

FIREFIGHTERS have issued a new warning over smoking safety after a dramatic late-night rescue at a hotel in King’s Cross.

Dozens were forced to flee after a fire alert at the Mabledon Court Hotel in Mabledon Place last Saturday. Thirty-six people managed to get out before firefighters arrived.

Crews then worked quickly to reach others trapped on upper floors.

Two were guided down an internal staircase wearing fire escape hoods, while another two were brought to safety using a turntable ladder.

Fire escape hoods are used to protect people from toxic smoke during rescues, filtering some of the most dangerous fire gases and giving wearers precious time to escape.

The fire, which began in the basement, is believed to have been accidental and caused by what the Brigade described as the “unsafe disposal of smoking materials”.

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.”

Crews from several stations were sent to the scene and brought the fire under control in about 60 minutes.