An arson investigation has been launched following a deliberate fire in an alleyway on Railway Road, Sheerness, on Tuesday evening.
Kent %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_0%% and Rescue Service responded to the incident at around 5:13pm on 22 April, sending two fire engines to the scene. Firefighters arrived to find a mattress ablaze in a narrow alleyway, with flames spreading to a nearby building's wooden door frame.
Crews equipped with breathing apparatus tackled the blaze using a high-pressure hose reel jet. A positive pressure ventilation fan was also used to clear smoke from the affected property. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
A spokesperson for %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_1%% confirmed the fire is being treated as deliberate:
"Our crews acted swiftly to prevent further spread and damage to surrounding buildings. The fire is believed to have been started intentionally, and we are supporting the %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_2%% with their enquiries."
The cause of the fire is under %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_3%%, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Members of the public with any relevant details are asked to contact %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_4%% on 101, quoting the incident location and time. Alternatively, anonymous reports can be made via %%UKNIP_ANCHOR_5%% on 0800 555 111.
Emergency services continue to appeal for vigilance and community cooperation in tackling deliberate fire-setting.
