Massive Blaze Shakes Sittingbourne Industrial Park
Firefighters are still battling a huge blaze that erupted at an industrial park on Styles Close, Sittingbourne, on Friday, 25 April.
Flames Fightback: Huge Firefighting Effort Underway
At the peak of the emergency, crews deployed ten fire engines, a height vehicle, and cutting-edge gear including a bulk water carrier and firefighting robots. Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) heroes worked in full protective suits and breathing apparatus, attacking the inferno with high-pressure hose reels, main jets, and uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs).
Minute-by-Minute: How the Fire Unfolded
- 11:55am (25 April): Fire crews rushed to heavy smoke reports. Nearby residents and businesses told to keep windows and doors shut due to smoke inhalation dangers.
- 3:20pm: Eight fire engines, a height vehicle, and Volunteer Response Team on scene, supporting the firefighting efforts and crew welfare. Firefighters liaised with local businesses for safety advice.
- 7:05pm: Numbers boosted to ten fire engines and a height vehicle. Smoke remained a serious health threat. Officials urged the public to keep windows and doors closed.
- 11:10pm: Situation stabilised. Safety advice lifted. Crews scaled down to three fire engines and a height vehicle, monitoring for hotspots.
- 10:30am (26 April): Two fire engines stayed overnight as firefighters systematically checked the site to ensure every corner was safe and fully doused.
High-Tech Firefighting Gear in Action
- Uncrewed Ground Vehicles (UGVs): Used to tackle the fire in dangerous spots without risking lives.
- Drones: Provided crucial aerial assessments.
- Bulk Water Carriers: Supplied extra water to keep the fight strong.
- KFRS Volunteer Response Team: Offered much-needed support to frontline crews.
Public Safety and Next Steps
Authorities have confirmed residents can now open their windows and doors. Fire crews will remain on site into the weekend to complete thorough safety inspections.
There have been no reported injuries. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
A KFRS spokesperson thanked everyone for their cooperation and urged nearby businesses to stay alert for any lingering smoke.
