Gas Crisis Hits Thousands in South Devon
Thousands of homes across South Devon have been left freezing after a careless third party smashed a gas main near Kingsbridge. The blackout has plunged entire communities—including Kingsbridge, Malborough, and Salcombe—into chaos as temperatures plummet.
Engineers Scramble to Fix Damage – Could Take Days
Wales & West Utilities say teams are on site working round the clock to repair the gas main. But they warn the outage could last for several days, leaving residents in the icy cold for some time. Devon County Council is stepping up, handing out warm packs to vulnerable people and gritting roads to keep emergency services rolling.
Fire Service Sounds Alarm on Heating Safety
As households switch to alternative heating and cooking, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has issued a stark warning. Their top safety tips include:
- Keep portable heaters at least one metre from people, furniture, curtains, and bedding
- Never cover heaters with clothes or flammable materials
- Store gas cylinders outside, away from sunlight and frost—only keep what you need
- Don’t use barbecues or indoor fires to cook inside
- Follow electric blanket instructions and avoid using with hot water bottles
- Turn off heaters and electric blankets before bedtime
- Make sure your carbon monoxide detector works and test it immediately
Stay in the Loop on Repairs
Residents are urged to follow Wales & West Utilities on social media for real-time updates on the gas restoration. Until then, keep safe, bundle up, and prepare for potentially cold days ahead.
