The occupants of several houses in Haylands have escaped with their lives after a blaze ripped through numerous gardens earlier this afternoon (Thursday), destroying a semi-detached house.
As first reported by Island Echo, crews from Ryde, Newport and Sandown were called to Southfield Gardens at around 15:15 as black smoke billowed into the skies above Ryde.
Over the past 3 hours, firefighters have been battling to bring the situation under control – which they now have. Sadly, the blaze could not be halted before it destroyed a number of fences and sheds, as well as spreading to one property.
The British Red Cross Fire & Emergency Support Unit is now on scene assisting those displaced by the fire, as well as providing support to those still on scene.
Crews from Shanklin and Bembridge are now relieving the first teams to arrive at the incident with damping down and turning over expected to continue for the next couple of hours. 2 water carriers from Ventnor and Freshwater are also on scene.
Southern Water say that extra demand for water by the fire service means some customers may experience lower water pressure. Engineers are re-routing water to support the extra demand, but are asking Islanders to use water wisely until the fire is out.
The cause of the fire is yet to be revealed, but it is understood the fire started in the garden or hedgerow at a residential address.
A massive well done to all emergency crews involved, you really are quite amazing & more should be said to say thankyou to you all. Xxx
And can I just add thank god you were all available to help & not putting out hay bales on fire at Compton car park! Whoever did that take note, could be your property on fire!!!!
Unfortunately people that did those fires probably own nothing so haven’t a clue what it means to have something you’ve worked hard for destroyed. Well done emergency services and thoughts with anyone who has been affected.
So, so sad to read.
This is shocking but OMG can I say a massive thank you and well done to those who participated in trying to resolve this incident.
I can’t believe that so many people look at these key-workers and support them
#stay home
#stay safe
#protect NHS
stop winging, its pathetic, just read the news, no one is interested in the warped opinions expressed here by the regular wingers , get a life, your only happy when your moaning, so boring