Blaze Erupts at Southsea Takeaway After Deep Fat Fryer Fire
Three firefighting crews from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service rushed to a Southsea takeaway this afternoon after a deep fat fryer caught fire and flames spread through the building’s ventilation system.
Water Makes Fire Worse
The drama started just after 3pm when a worker, trying to put out the flames, doused the fryer with water – sparking a bigger blaze instead.
Thankfully, staff spotted thick smoke and quickly raised the alarm. “Everyone is okay, and there are no casualties,” said one worker. “We evacuated and called the fire brigade immediately.”
Lease Just Renewed – Business Devastated
The takeaway owner revealed the heartbreaking blow. “We’ve been here ten years and just re-signed the lease. I’m gutted, losing my business like this. As a family, we’re going to have to start all over again.”
Firefighters Battle Flames Shooting From Vent
Fire crews arrived to see flames flickering out of the ventilation system. Crew Manager Scott Yule said, “We tackled the fire in breathing apparatus using three jets and one hose reel.” The area was sealed off to keep shoppers and onlookers at bay.
A nearby pensioner, passing on a bus, described the scene: “There was thick brown smoke belching out, and I could smell it on the bus. Flames were coming out of the window before the fire service arrived.”
The fire service confirmed they sent three appliances from Southsea. The blaze appears to have started in the ventilation system. Crews remain at the scene ensuring all hotspots are fully extinguished and the danger is over.
