A fire engulfed a building in Dagenham, east London, resulting in 100 evacuations and two hospitalizations. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) responded to the blaze on Freshwater Road at 2:44 am on Monday with 45 engines and 225 firefighters on the scene. Despite heavy smoke, injuries were minimal due to the swift response of emergency services.
The building had known fire safety issues and a full evacuation was carried out. The LFB declared a major incident to focus resources on the fire and set up a rest center at Beacontree Health and Leisure Center to support residents.
Drones and turntable ladders were deployed to tackle the blaze as crews from various fire stations attended the scene. The cause of the fire is unknown, and Freshwater Road remains closed to traffic.
Dagenham and Rainham’s Labour MP, Margaret Mullane, praised the London Fire Brigade for their rapid response and announced plans to visit the rescue center to offer support to those affected by the fire.
As investigations continue into the cause of the fire, residents are advised to avoid the area where possible. The London Fire Brigade is working to address the safety issues of the building and provide support to the community during this difficult time.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com