Eight fire engines were deployed to tackle a major house fire on Oake Close in the village of Oake, near Taunton, late on Friday night, July 17. The Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service responded swiftly to multiple emergency calls, initially dispatching three fire engines. However, upon arrival, the incident commander requested additional resources due to the severity of the blaze.
The fire service now has eight engines on site, including specialist vehicles such as an aerial ladder platform and a water bowser, to effectively manage the situation. Firefighters are currently using four hose reel jets, two main jets, and breathing apparatus as they work to contain and extinguish the fire.
Officials have urged the public to avoid the area and advised residents nearby to keep their doors and windows closed to minimize smoke inhalation and ensure safety.