FPA Discusses Large Scale Fires Around UK Industrial Estates

Fire and rescue services have been responding to calls of ‘large-scale’ fires at industrial estates across the UK this past week, demonstrating their vital role in keeping residents safe.

large-scale fire

On the evening of 18 November 2022, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) sent crews to tackle a fire that broke out at a disused warehouse in the town of Ryton, in Gateshead.

Described as a ‘large-scale’ fire, eight fire appliances and 40 firefighters attended the factory blaze. In addition to an aerial ladder platform, a drone was used to help identify hotspots and ensure the fire did not spread. Crews were able to bring the fire under control by the following morning.

Fire prevention

TWFRS commented on the heroism of its firefighters, saying 'they did not hesitate'

In a statement, TWFRS commented on the heroism of its firefighters, highlighting 'they did not hesitate' and that fire crews were 'immediately deployed' to prevent the fire from spreading.

“Our first firefighters were on the scene in a matter of minutes and quickly recognized they needed reinforcements,” the TWFRS service stated.

Fire safety advice 

After the incident, TWFRS also thanked those in the area who followed the suggested advice to keep doors and windows closed due to the high levels of smoke.

"But most of all we want to say a huge well done to all of our staff who responded so effectively in a high-pressure situation. You did us proud as always,” the TWFRS service added.

Garage fire

On the same day, another major fire broke out at an industrial estate in Flintshire, North East Wales. Fire crews were called in the early hours of the morning to tackle the blaze, causing neighboring residents to wake up.

Neighbors posted videos of the fire on social media, where smoke and flames can be seen rising from the building, which is believed to be a commercial garage. The operation required four fire appliances and an aerial ladder platform, and the public was advised to avoid the area.

Cause of fire 

The North Wales Fire and Rescue Service (NWFRS) later reported that "the building was not occupied at the time” and that “crews called in with a stop (no further response required) at 8.09 am”.

Following the incident, a manager from NWFRS was sent to the site to carry out an investigation. According to The Leader, the suspected cause of the fire was an “electrical fault in a vehicle on the premises.”