Firefighters Race to West Quay After Fridge Blaze Shuts M&S
Hampshire Fire and Rescue teams were scrambled to West Quay shopping centre just after 5.10pm on New Year’s Eve following a fridge fire inside the Marks & Spencer’s food hall. This comes days after crews dealt with cooking fumes at a fast food outlet in the same complex.
Fridge Fire Triggers Evacuation
Two fire pumps and two officers responded immediately to the blaze inside the popular retail spot. Although the centre was already closed to the public, staff were evacuated as a precaution. Smoke was visible drifting through the food hall, but thankfully, no injuries have been reported.
Crews Douse Flames Using Jets and Sprinklers
Firefighters donned breathing apparatus and tackled the fire using two jets. The store’s sprinkler system helped control the flames, speeding up containment. Further support arrived on scene, including more fire engines, Hampshire’s Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), and a command unit from Eastleigh.
Situation Under Control Within The Hour
A Hampshire Fire and Rescue spokesperson confirmed the fridge fire was quickly extinguished and declared out by 6.07pm. The swift response avoided any serious damage or injuries. Shoppers and staff are now breathing easier with West Quay back to business after a tense afternoon.
