The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has issued an urgent warning to anybody with incense sticks after they were called out to a fire in the south of the capital. The brigade were forced to deploy four fire engines and around 25 firefighters to tackle a shed fire which saw a shed, pergola and garden fence panels completely destroyed.

The incident also left half of a garden office damaged but thankfully nobody was injured. The fire is believed to have been accidental and caused by incense sticks placed too close to combustible materials. However, the near miss has led to the organisation issuing an urgent warning to anybody who uses incense sticks.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "Incense sticks, candles and oil burners are one of the most common causes of fire within homes. It’s really important that you never leave these items unattended.

"Make sure you place incense sticks in a suitable, fire-resistant holder and keep them away from curtains and anything else that can easily catch fire.

“Remember to put them out entirely when you leave the room and especially before bed.

"We also recommend taking some time to carry out a few simple checks to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

“The Brigade’s online Home Fire Safety Checker can guide you around your home and provide you with specific advice to reduce fire risks.”

Incense sticks are fragrant materials that releases smoke and scent when burned, with the word “incense” being derived from the Latin word for “to burn.”

Uses of the sticks vary but they are common for spiritual practises as well as for aromatherapy, relaxation or meditation.

Others believe that the use of the sticks has health benefits with some claiming that the they reduce inflammation and improve mental health, although some experts warn that overuse could have negative health implications.

Incense has been around since ancient times and was used in religious rituals in ancient Egypt, Babylon, and Greece.

Over the centuries and into the present day, people throughout the world have used incense for a variety reasons, including as a means of masking poor odours, religious practices and even to deter or warn off demons or evil spirits.

Specific ingredients vary by manufacturer, but common compositions include things such as sandalwood, cinnamon, myrrh and patchouli.