Massive Blaze Ravages Bermondsey Shop
A fierce fire erupted just before 6pm on March 25 at a commercial property on Southwark Park Road, Bermondsey, sending smoke billowing across the area.
60 Firefighters Race to Tackle Intense Inferno
Eight fire engines and about 60 firefighters flooded the scene. The ground-floor shop was gutted, while flames also damaged part of a first-floor flat.
Heroic Rescue: Child Saved with Fire Escape Hood
Firefighters, geared up in breathing apparatus, used a fire escape hood to lead a child to safety from a third-floor flat. Station Commander Tony Perks said, “Initial crews faced a very intense fire on arrival and worked swiftly to bring it under control and ensure residents in flats above the shop were safe.”
These hoods, introduced after the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in 2018, provide up to 15 minutes’ protection against deadly smoke and toxic gases.
Blaze Brought Under Control, Investigation Ongoing
The fire was contained by 7.08pm thanks to crews from Dockhead, Old Kent Road, Whitechapel and others. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.
Commander Perks warned, “There are road closures in place, which are expected to remain for several hours this evening, and we recommend people continue to avoid the area.”
The cause of the blaze is still under investigation.
