Blaze Breaks Out in Split-Level Flat — Woman Rescued
A fire broke out in a split-level flat spanning the 10th and 11th floors of a London residential block last night. A woman was rushed to hospital after firefighters pulled her from a balcony using a fire escape hood.
Firefighters Race to Rescue
Station Commander Chris Jenner, who led the operation, revealed: “Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus rescued a woman from a balcony using a fire escape hood.” He added crews worked swiftly to tame the flames and stop the fire spreading further.
What Are Fire Escape Hoods?
Fire escape hoods protect people from deadly smoke gases like carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide for up to 15 minutes. They can be worn by anyone, conscious or not, filtering toxic air to make breathing easier — though they don’t supply oxygen. If needed, a fresh hood can be handed out for extended protection.
Quick Response From Fire Brigade
- The Brigade was called at 7:33pm and had the fire under control by 8:11pm.
- Six fire engines and 40 firefighters from Clapham, Brixton, Battersea, Tooting, Chelsea, and Lambeth stations tackled the blaze.
- The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
