A late-night fire broke out on Cornwallis Road, Hastings, prompting an urgent response from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service on the night of December 19, 2024. Crews arrived swiftly following reports of smoke emanating from a flat, mobilizing an extensive operation to control the situation.
Crews Work Tirelessly to Control Hastings Fire
The initial call was received at 11:24 PM, with four fire engines and officers arriving at the scene by 11:50 PM. Firefighters employed six breathing apparatus, a main jet, a hose reel jet, and firefighting foam to tackle the flames. Residents and passersby were urged to avoid the area while emergency teams worked to contain the blaze.
By 12:10 AM on December 20, gas and water supplies to the affected property were isolated as a precautionary measure. Police and ambulance services also attended the scene, ensuring safety and readiness for any further incidents.
An escalation in firefighting efforts was necessary at 12:30 AM as two additional fire engines were dispatched. This increased the number of breathing apparatus wearers to eight, a critical step in ensuring all angles of the fire were addressed. By this time, the fire had been successfully extinguished, although a thorough investigation into its cause was announced.
All Occupants Accounted for Amid Damping-Down Efforts
By 12:50 AM, all individuals from the property had been accounted for, relieving fears of casualties. Firefighters continued their efforts by damping down and turning over debris to eliminate any remaining hot spots. Over the course of the incident, a total of ten breathing apparatus and one hose reel jet were utilized.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and authorities have not yet disclosed further details. Residents are reminded to remain cautious and vigilant to ensure safety in their homes, especially during the colder months when heating appliances and festive decorations pose additional fire risks.
