UPDATED WITH VIDEO: Firefighters from the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are attending a fire in Shanklin tonight (Tuesday).
Crews were called to the scene on Victoria Avenue to reports of a bedroom fire at around 21:45.
4 fire appliances are currently tackling the blaze at a residential property, which is said to be ‘well alight’. 2 fire officers and the Incident Command Unit are also on scene.
Black smoke is billowing across roads and throughout the town. There are also reports of debris floating in the air.
It is advised that residents that live in the area close all doors and windows to prevent the thick smoke from entering surrounding properties.
Hoses are being used on surrounding properties to try to prevent the fire from spreading.
Victoria Avenue has been closed to traffic as a result of the incident.
Southern Vectis’ Route 2 buses are on diversion via St John’s Road/Brook Road to reach Shanklin Co-op bus stop. Operates both ways.
UPDATE @ 23:55 – 4 adults, a child and a pet dog have escaped injury in tonight’s incident, thanks to working smoke alarms that alerted them to the fire.
According to the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, crews arrived to find flames escaping from a 1st floor rear bedroom. Covering jets were quickly put in place to prevent the fire from spreading to neighbouring properties whilst crews wearing breathing apparatus tackled the fire from within the building.
5 appliances from Sandown, Shanklin, Newport and Ventnor remain on the scene as crews cut away and damp down the area. Positive pressure ventilation is being used to rid the property of smoke.
The British Red Cross Fire and Emergency Support vehicle is on scene assisting the family, who have been left homeless tonight. Arrangements are being made.
Crews are expected to remain on scene for the next few hours.
UPDATE WEDNESDAY – An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway this morning.
The entire 1st floor of the semi-detached property has been smoke damaged by the blaze, which at its height saw over 25 firefighters in attendance.
The ground floor of the family home has suffered from water damage.
VIDEO:
More to follow
Photos/video thanks to Tracey Harris/Sam Wrighton
