Belgravia Blaze Sends Shockwaves Through Upscale Dining Spot
Last night, chaos hit Pont Street in posh Belgravia as a fire tore through a popular restaurant. A huge emergency response was launched with 60 firefighters and eight fire engines battling flames well into the early hours.
Emergency Rush After Smoke Spotted on Roof
The London Fire Brigade were scrambled just after 11pm following reports of thick smoke and flames coming from the building’s roof area above the hotel. Before firefighters arrived, seven diners and six staff fled the scene.
Two trapped people—a man and a woman—were saved from the third floor, with firefighters using breathing apparatus and fire escape hoods to lead them to safety.
Fire Escape Hoods Protect Victims from Toxic Gases
Fire escape hoods, which protect against deadly gases like carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide for up to 15 minutes, were crucial in safeguarding the rescued pair. These hoods do not provide oxygen but filter out toxic smoke to make breathing possible during evacuation.
Major Damage and Ongoing Investigation
- The blaze severely damaged the building’s basement and destroyed the entire ducting system from basement to roof.
- The fire broke out around 10.40pm and was under control by 2.09am.
- Multiple fire crews from Chelsea, Kensington, Soho, Lambeth, Euston, Chelsea, and Fulham fought the fire.
- Road closures remain in place as authorities continue their investigation into the cause.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters were called to a fire at a restaurant with dwellings above on Pont Street in Belgravia. Part of the basement was damaged, and all ducting was destroyed. Six staff and seven diners left before our arrival. Firefighters used fire escape hoods on one woman and one man who were led to safety.”
Diners were left stunned as flames engulfed the building in one of London’s most affluent areas. The investigation is ongoing as crews work to piece together what sparked the dramatic fire.
