Firefighters from across the Isle of Wight are tackling a bungalow fire in Newbridge this afternoon (Monday).
Crews are currently on scene on Main Road in Newbridge, following the first emergency call at around 13:00.
Appliances from Newport, Ryde, Cowes, Ventnor, Shanklin and the aerial ladder platform are on scene as firefighters tackle the blaze.
Firefighters in breathing apparatus are using hose reel jets to attack the flames which have taken ahold of the roof.
Island Echo understands that residents of the bungalow, and the adjoining dwellings, have been evacuated.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service is warning motorists to avoid the area due to the high number of emergency vehicles in the area.
UPDATE @ 14:45 – A spokesperson from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has said:
“Crews from Newport, Cowes, Ryde and Shanklin are currently on the scene, having first been called at around half one this afternoon.
“The fire in the roof space of the building, which consists of four bungalows, is being tackled by firefighters wearing breathing apparatus sets and using hose reel jets.
“All of the occupants were safely out of the properties, and no injuries have been reported.
“We ask that people avoid the area at this time to allow access for emergency services vehicles.”
UPDATE @ 15:00 – Appliances from the mainland are being drafted over to provide fire cover elsewhere on the Island. Several have been spotted on cross-Solent ferries heading toward the Island.
UPDATE @ 15:30 – Having extinguished the blaze, firefighters are beginning to pack away. Those still on scene are removing any loose/flaming roof tiles from the property and checking for any hotspots.
UPDATE @ 16:25 – A second casualty has been taken to hospital as a precaution the fire service have confirmed.
UPDATE @ 17:56 – The scene has been cleared with all fire appliances and emergency vehicles now returning back to their base.
Southern Vectis have confirmed that Main Road, Newbridge has reopened allowing the number 7 bus through the village to resume using their normal route.
Another Solar Invertor in the loft I expect…. always thought it was a completely stupid place to put solar invertors in the hottest bit of the house so they can’t dissipate heat fast enough…
My thoughts exactly. I read the other day about a
large fire on the mainland involving solar panels.