A potentially catastrophic house fire on Renshaw Close in Catford became the scene of an extraordinary rescue operation on Saturday morning. Eight fire engines and approximately 60 firefighters responded to the intense blaze that devastated the first floor and loft conversion of a residential property.
Heroic Firefighter Intervention Saves Lives
Station Commander Mike Watts described the heart-stopping rescue: A woman was dramatically saved from slipping off a pitched roof by a quick-thinking firefighter using a nine-metre ladder. The complex rescue involved:
- Preventing the woman from falling
- Erecting a second ladder for safe descent
- Immediate medical attention for smoke inhalation
Multiple Residents Hospitalized
The Catford house fire resulted in:
- One woman rescued from the roof
- Two additional residents evacuating before firefighter arrival
- All three individuals transported to hospital by London Ambulance Service
- One resident believed to have sustained serious injuries
Incident Response and Community Impact
Emergency Response Highlights:
- Brigade Control received over 20 emergency calls
- Crews mobilised from New Cross, Beckenham, Greenwich, Lee Green
- Initial call at 07:31
- Fire brought under control by 09:39
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety
The fire’s cause remains under investigation. A road closure remains in place on Ravensbourne Park, though rail services at nearby Catford Station have not been disrupted.
Community Safety Recommendations
Residents are advised to:
- Avoid the immediate incident area
- Stay informed through local emergency channels
- Check on neighbours and community members
External Resources:
- London Fire Brigade Safety Tips
- Emergency Preparedness Guide
