Welding sparks panic at Dinosaur Island as fire alarms send visitors fleeing!
Fire crews rush to Sandown attraction
Chaos erupted at Isle of Wight’s Dinosaur Island this morning when welding work triggered the fire alarm, forcing a full evacuation. Three fire engines from Shanklin and Ryde roared to the scene on Culver Parade, Sandown, amid fears of a blaze.
False alarm after smoke sensors triggered
The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service deployed an aerial ladder platform from Ryde and a Command and Control unit from Newport just after 11.15am. After a quick investigation, firefighters discovered no fire had broken out.
The culprit? Welding fumes from outside the building blown inside, tripping the smoke sensors and setting off the alarm.
Visitors safe, schools resume tours
The attraction, temporarily shut down, has now reopened. Two school groups visiting at the time were evacuated but have since continued their tours without incident.
“Fumes from some welding being carried outside the building managed to blow inside and set the fire alarms off,” said an Isle of Wight Council spokesperson. “Dinosaur was evacuated for a time, but visitors and staff have now returned.”
