Major Roof Fire Forces Evacuation of Four-Storey Building in London

On June 5, 2024, a major fire at a four-storey building in Hackney led to the evacuation of residents.

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) responded to over 35 emergency calls, deploying 15 fire appliances and 100 firefighters from various stations.

Assistant Commissioner Keeley Foster reported that firefighters arrived within four minutes to find a large fire affecting the roof.

The fire began around 5 pm, with witnesses describing huge flames and thick smoke. A local resident noted, "People were urgently trying to alert neighbours, and many were running and shouting."

Control Officers used footage from a bystander to mobilise extra resources, including an aerial ladder.

Firefighters used breathing apparatus and two 32-metre turntable ladders to tackle the fire from above.

Although the roof was heavily damaged, their efforts minimised damage to the flats, though some were affected by fire and smoke.

As reported by i news, there was damage to two flats on the second and third floors.

By 9 pm, the fire was under control, but firefighters remained overnight to monitor hot spots.

One person was treated for minor smoke inhalation, with no other injuries reported. About 50 residents were relocated to a nearby church.

Firefighters helped residents retrieve essential items and worked with local authorities for support.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Fire Investigation Team and scientific advisors.

Read more: https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/incidents/2024/june/fire-at-block-of-flats-hackney/#:~:text=Fifteen%20fire%20engines%20and%20around,reports%20of%20any%20other%20injuries.