Naughty tortoise causes fire but is rescued by firefighters
- Firefighters were called to a flat fire in Mitcham, where a tortoise caused the blaze by knocking over a heat lamp.
- Crews from multiple fire stations rescued a tortoise and a dog hiding from the fire under the stairs.
- Both pets were returned safely to their owner, and the fire was controlled with minimal damage to the property.
In the recent incident that took place on July 13, 2025, in a flat located on London Road in Mitcham, firefighters were alerted to a fire caused by a tortoise. The London Fire Brigade responded promptly to the scene, where they discovered flames resulting from the tortoise's acts of mischief. Initially, the tortoise had knocked over its heat lamp, which fell onto its bed of hay, a highly combustible material set up within its enclosure. This unfortunate accident sparked an alarming blaze that necessitated immediate action from the emergency services. Fire crews from multiple stations including Mitcham, Wimbledon, Tooting, and Wallington rushed to control the fire. Upon arrival, they quickly assessed the situation and were informed of two pets residing in the apartment: a tortoise and a small dog. The firefighters conducted a thorough search of the premises, discovering the dog hiding under the stairs, seeking safety from the smoke and flames. They managed to rescue both animals amidst the chaos, ensuring their safety and wellbeing. By 12:22 PM, just under an hour after they received the emergency call, the fire was brought under control, minimizing damage to the flat. Fortunately, the property was reportedly only lightly damaged, allowing the owner to return to their home with minimal disruption. The London Fire Brigade personnel later expressed their relief at being able to save both pets from potential harm. Reliable sources confirmed that neither the tortoise nor the dog sustained injuries during the incident, which undoubtedly could have had dire consequences had they not been located in time. This incident highlights the importance of pet safety in household settings, particularly when using heat sources that can pose risks when tipped over or knocked down. Awareness of the potential hazards that come with keeping pets, especially reptiles like tortoises that require specialized heating, is crucial to preventing such accidents in the future. The rapid response of the London Fire Brigade not only showcases their commitment to animal welfare but also reflects the importance of quick thinking in mitigating fire hazards that may arise from seemingly benign household activities.