This Boxing Day, the Joint Fire Control received a call at 3:32 pm to a fire outbreak in a commercial building in Shoreham. The call led to the deployment of fire engines and additional appliances from both the Shoreham and Worthing areas, along with support from the East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service.
On reaching the site, the firefighters were met with flames emerging from an external ducting system of the building. In a coordinated effort, teams wearing breathing apparatus entered the building to combat the fire from within. Concurrently, other firefighters focused on containing the fire from the outside, a crucial step to prevent it from spreading to the building’s roof.
Thanks to the prompt and efficient response of the initial crews, the fire was successfully kept from reaching the roof space, safeguarding the flat above from potential damage. This quick action played a vital role in averting a more severe outcome.
Authorities have determined that the cause of the fire was accidental.
A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: “We were called at 3.32pm on Tuesday 26 December to reports of a commercial building on fire on Upper Shoreham Road, Shoreham.
“Joint Fire Control mobilised fire engines from Shoreham and Worthing to the scene along with appliances from East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service. Upon arrival, firefighters found a fire in an external ducting system.
“Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus entered the building to deal with the fire, while firefighters also tackled the fire from outside the building to prevent the fire from spreading into the roof.
“Due to the quick actions of the initial crews, the fire was prevented from entering the roof space and didn’t affect the flat above.
“The cause of the fire was deemed to be accidental. Firefighters will return to the scene today (Wednesday) to carry out community fire safety work with neighbouring properties and provide safety advice and guidance.”
