FIREFIGHTERS BATTLE FIERCE BLAZE IN AXMINSTER AS VEHICLE FIRE SPREADS TO UNIT - 🚒
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
Fire crews from Axminster and surrounding stations were called to tackle a significant vehicle fire in East Devon this week, after a Telehandler caught alight and threatened to engulf a nearby industrial unit.
The alarm was raised at approximately 7.22pm on Wednesday, 9th April, when Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service received a call from a concerned member of the public reporting a large fire involving a Telehandler - a type of heavy-duty lifting vehicle - on the outskirts of Axminster.
Responding swiftly, fire engines from Axminster and Charmouth were dispatched, supported by a water carrier from Bridport. As crews made their way to the scene, a considerable plume of smoke was already visible, prompting the use of breathing apparatus as a precautionary measure.
Upon arrival, firefighters found the blaze intensifying and beginning to spread to a nearby works unit.
To contain the fire and prevent further damage, crews split their efforts.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus tackled the flames engulfing the Telehandler, while the remaining team focused on suppressing the fire threatening the shed.
A spokesperson from Axminster Fire Station confirmed: “The vehicle suffered total fire and smoke damage, with around five square metres of the unit’s wall also affected.”
Fortunately, thanks to the quick and coordinated response, the fire was brought under control before it could escalate further.
Crews remained on site for some time after the main blaze was extinguished, ensuring all hotspots were fully dampened and monitoring temperatures to prevent reignition.
No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire has not yet been disclosed.
Fire crews have since returned to their home stations, but the incident serves as a reminder of the crucial and rapid response our local fire services provide in times of emergency.
( Photo: Pixabay Library 📸 )