A significant fire at a vehicle repair centre in Barking required the swift response of six fire engines and approximately 40 firefighters. The incident occurred at a commercial property situated on River Road.
The blaze, which erupted yesterday, consumed several vehicles and approximately 50 tonnes of scrap metal. To prevent potential explosions, firefighters took immediate action to cool a gas cylinder on the premises. Some cylinders can pose risks of exploding when exposed to high temperatures.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of any injuries resulting from the fire. However, the incident generated significant amounts of smoke and was highly visible. As a precautionary measure, residents in the vicinity were advised to keep their windows and doors closed.
River Road remains temporarily closed to traffic, and the public is urged to avoid the area while firefighting crews work diligently to fully extinguish the fire. The Brigade’s 999 Control Officers received 14 calls regarding the fire.
The incident was reported at 12:54 PM, and firefighters managed to bring it under control by 2:42 PM. Responding crews hailed from Plaistow, Dagenham, Millwall, and surrounding fire stations.
An investigation is now underway to determine the cause of the fire. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.
