A fire that claimed one life in a 22-storey tower block in Poplar, London, has raised concerns among residents who claim they did not hear alarms and were instead alerted by neighbors. The blaze, which broke out in the early hours of the morning, destroyed half of a two-bedroom flat and balcony on the 17th floor.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) was called to the incident at 4:35 a.m. and had the fire under control by 6:41 a.m. FirstPort, the building's management firm, stated that resident safety is their immediate priority and that teams have been providing direct support, including arranging temporary accommodation for those affected.
Residents have described the event with distress, with one comparing the burning building to the Grenfell Tower disaster. Many are currently staying in nearby hotels, having booked rooms at their own expense, with no confirmed timeframe for their return home. Decisions about residents returning will be made in conjunction with emergency services when it is deemed safe.
FirstPort expressed its deep sadness over the death and extended its thoughts to the victim's family and all those affected. The company has committed to keeping residents updated as further information becomes available and plans for their safe return are developed. Teams continue to provide on-site support to those impacted by the fire.