An urgent investigation into the safety of Hounslow tower blocks has been launched after a blaze in 12-storey Camberwell flats killed six tenants.

After the blaze at Lakanal House, on July 3, which left families trapped in the smoke-filled tower block waiting to be rescued, politicans called for an urgent review of the fire safety of tower blocks with one central stairwell.

Other London councils were bombarded with questions about high rise flat designs and fire evacuation plans with Hounslow Homes, which manages council-owned residental buildings, launching a review of its safety practices in all tower blocks.

Councillor Matt Harmer said: “I don’t want to panic anyone but we must make sure the devastation and loss of life in Camberwell does not happen in Hounslow.

“It is about making sure people are getting the best advice, people need to know what to do if something happens. We also want to make sure everybody has a fire alarm and knows what to do.

A Hounslow Homes spokesman said some of its low-rise buildings were of similar design to Lakanal House but had outside decking.

He said: “Following the fire at Camberwell, Hounslow Homes immediately inspected all 28 high rise blocks in the borough, to identify any safety issues. Risk assessments are currently being reviewed and updated to ensure that fire risks are reduced to the minimum possible level.

“There are a number of low rise maisonette blocks with a single central staircase, but these also have external deck access. Safety is of paramount importance to Hounslow Homes who will continue to work to provide a safe and secure environment for all residents.”

The spokesman said Hounslow Homes properties had precautions in place to contain fires within the flat of origin and said it was unlikely a blaze could spread so quickly to other floors as in Camberwell.

Hounslow Homes fire safety advice is to remain in your flat if a blaze breaks out in the building to avoid a stampede on the stairwell or tenants running through smoke filled corridoors.

But engineers have warned tenants the higher they live, the harder it is to escape from a fire.

Nick Troth, director of Arup, an engineering company specialising in fire safety, said: "The higher you go the harder it is to escape during a fire. It is also harder for firefighters because their equipment doesn't reach.

“Firefighters have difficulty getting to anyone trapped above 30m high."

If you are concerned call Hounslow Homes on 0800 085 6575.