FIRE CREWS TACKLE MAJOR PROPERTY BLAZE NEAR AXMINSTER - 🚒

Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News

A significant property fire broke out in the village of Furley, near Membury in the Axminster area, on Monday afternoon, prompting a swift response from fire crews in Colyton, Honiton, and Chard.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service received the emergency call at approximately 1.45pm on 21st April. Thanks to the presence of working smoke alarms, the property’s occupant was alerted early and able to call 999 before the blaze escalated further.

On arrival, firefighters were faced with a substantial fire that had originated in the boiler room and spread rapidly to the loft area of the home. Teams from all three responding stations worked in unison to bring the fire under control, using breathing apparatus and thermal imaging equipment to identify and extinguish hotspots in the smoke-logged loft.

A spokesperson from Colyton Fire Station confirmed that the fire caused severe damage to the cupboard where it began, with additional smoke damage affecting both the bathroom and loft space.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire is believed to have been accidental.

In the aftermath, firefighters emphasised the importance of regularly testing smoke alarms. “We recommend that you test your smoke alarms at least monthly,” the spokesperson added. “If you don’t have working alarms or are concerned about fire safety in your home, visit our website for more information.”

( Photo: Matthias Fischer / Pixabay Library 📸 )