Around 30 firefighters and six fire engines plus an aerial ladder platform fought for three hours to contain a workshop fire at the Tonedale premises of R W Gale Contractors. Neighbours reported smoke and flames coming from the roof of the building before the firefighters arrived at around 8.15am to tackle the blaze .
A spokesman for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue said: “Flames were seen issuing from the area. There were reports there may be gas cylinders inside and there was also a HGV lorry inside the building.
“The fire was in the garage area of the industrial unit. We used breathing apparatus and jets to extinguish the fire and by 9.30am we were making good progress.
“There was also 30 gallons of industrial oil involved, plus tanks containing argon and LPG.”
Crews got to work using breathing apparatus, two main jets and two hose reel jets. Two gas cylinders on scene were being cooled by water jets to reduce the risk of an explosion.
After three hours on scene the crew reported the fire was under control with 20% damage to the building and 40% damage to contents. Firefighters remained on site working to control an oil leak.
Thank goodness we have such brave, dedicated firefighters. I see often see them training and I always admire their work ethic.