Firefighters are warning residents to check their smoke alarms after a flat fire almost ended in tragedy.

London Fire Brigade was called to Hurstmead Court in Edgware on February 12 just after 11pm to reports of a flat fire.

There were no smoke alarms in the flat and the occupant only escaped because they smelt burning and discovered the fire in a bedroom.

The resident quickly got out of the flat, and told the 20 other occupants in the block, all of whom evacuated without injury.

Half of the flat and part of the roof were damaged in the fire,

A spokesman from the LFB said: "Homes need multiple smoke alarms or you won’t be properly covered. Ideal spots for smoke alarms include rooms where you leave electrical equipment running like satellite boxes, computers or heaters; any room where you smoke, and anywhere you charge your mobile or laptop.

"As a minimum you should have smoke alarms on every floor - in the hallways and the rooms you use the most, plus a heat alarm in the kitchen. They should be tested regularly."

Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers from Stanmore, Mill Hill, Hendon, and Enfield fought off the fire, which was under control by 12.45am.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.