They were brought to safety by firefighters wearing
breathing apparatus, and provided with safety hoods which protect against noxious
gases to help them escape the flames.
Ten more people were able to leave the six-storey building
on London Road before the brigade arrived.
It took eight appliances and more than sixty firefighters
from Norbury, Croydon, Shadwell, Woodside, Mitcham and Wallington fire stations
to bring the fire under control.
A three-roomed flat on the second floor was completely
destroyed.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.