Major Blaze at Disused Southwark Flats Sends Five to Hospital
A massive fire ripped through a disused block of flats on Newcomen Street, Southwark, early this morning. The London Fire Brigade launched a huge response, sending twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters to tackle the inferno.
Early Morning Chaos and Risky Rescues
The fire broke out just after 4am, destroying half the ground floor, part of the first floor, and the staircase connecting the two. Fire crews scrambled to rescue people trapped inside the three- and four-storey building. Five injured residents were rushed to hospital by London Ambulance Service.
- One person was rescued from the roof via ladder.
- Two were brought down from the second floor by ladder.
- Two more were saved from the basement by crews wearing breathing apparatus and fire escape hoods.
Fire escape hoods, introduced after the Grenfell disaster in 2018, provide up to 15 minutes protection against toxic fumes, crucial in saving lives during this blaze.
Rapid Response and Fire Under Control
The London Fire Brigade’s 999 Control Centre received nearly 10 emergency calls about the fire at 4:07 AM. Operators gave vital fire survival advice before crews arrived. By 5:07 AM, the blaze was under control thanks to firefighters from multiple stations, including Dowgate, Whitechapel, Old Kent Road, Dockhead, Lambeth, Soho, and Peckham.
Investigation and Community Concern
The Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade’s fire investigation team are now probing the cause of the blaze. Roads around Newcomen Street were shut during firefighting, causing major disruption.
“Our crews acted quickly and efficiently to bring the fire under control and carry out multiple rescues. The use of fire escape hoods once again proved critical in ensuring the safety of those trapped inside the building.” – London Fire Brigade Spokesperson
Local residents voiced worries over the safety of abandoned buildings in their area, highlighting risks when fires break out. Authorities urge anyone with information on the incident to contact the London Fire Brigade or Metropolitan Police.
Stay tuned for updates as the investigation unfolds.
