A survey of 1,000 tenants in blocks of flats conducted on behalf of London Fire Brigade reveals that almost 40 per cent have seen fire doors left open.

In addition, a fifth say they have noticed damage to their building’s fire doors.

“It is extremely concerning that the lives of the public and our firefighters are still being put at risk by poorly maintained fire doors and people acting irresponsibly by removing self closers, keeping doors wedged open or even in some cases replacing them” says London Fire Commissioner Dany Cotton.

“Good fire doors help stop fires from spreading. Fires that spread put more lives at risk and I would urge everyone to check that their fire doors are properly maintained and kept shut. Remember they don’t just protect you, but everybody in the building.”

LFB is reminding agents and landlords that fire doors are specifically designed to withstand fire for up to 30 minutes, are a legal requirement for flats which open onto communal areas shared with other tenants, and are designed to automatically close behind you in the event of fire.