East Sussex Fire and Rescue crews fought a major thatched roof fire on London Road in Battle on 13 May. Called at 3:58pm, firefighters responded swiftly to reports of flames engulfing the property, triggering a large-scale emergency operation to protect the local area.
Massive Fire Response
Seven fire engines, an Aerial Ladder Platform, a Water Carrier, and a Dual Purpose Truck were deployed to tackle the blaze. Firefighters used two main jets and a hydrant to bring the fire under control.
Safety Measures Enforced
Due to heavy smoke, residents were advised to keep doors and windows shut. The A2100 road was closed to enable safe working conditions, with the public urged to avoid the area during firefighting efforts.
Fire Under Control
By 6:40pm, the response was scaled back to three fire engines and an Aerial Ladder Platform. Crews removed sections of thatch to prevent fire spread and extinguished hotspots.
Aftermath And Safety Checks
The fire was fully extinguished by 8:27pm, but firefighters stayed on-site overnight carrying out safety inspections and clearing remaining thatch. Thermal imaging was used early the next morning to detect any concealed hotspots. No injuries were reported, and fire operations have now been completed.
