Massive Blaze Hits South Wimbledon Warehouse
Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters battled a huge fire at a warehouse on Lombard Road, South Wimbledon, yesterday (May 5).
Timber Stack Destroyed, Two Treated for Smoke Inhalation
The inferno damaged part of the ground floor and the building’s exterior. A large stack of timber was completely destroyed. Two people suffering from smoke inhalation received treatment at the scene from London Ambulance Service crews.
Smoke Blankets Neighbourhood, Firefighters Deploy Drone and Ladders
Station Commander Tom Conlon said: “The fire was producing heavy smoke in the local area. People were advised to keep their windows and doors closed and to avoid the area.”
The Brigade’s drone team provided a crucial aerial view to help tackle the blaze. Crews used two 32-metre turntable ladders to get the fire under control.
Cause Blamed on Unsafe Smoking Habits, Fire Brigade Issues Warning
The fire is being treated as accidental, likely triggered by the unsafe disposal of smoking materials.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson warned: “We’d rather you didn’t smoke at all, but if you are a smoker, it’s absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it.
“If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy properties but also cost you your life.”
Firefighters Responded Swiftly to Multiple Emergency Calls
The Brigade’s 999 Control Officers received 12 calls about the blaze. The fire service was called at 2:55pm and had the fire under control by 7:32pm.
Fire crews from Wimbledon, Mitcham, New Malden, Sutton, Kingston, West Norwood, and surrounding stations rushed to the scene.
