Firefighters battled for hours to contain a devastating fire that severely damaged a house in the village of Oake, near Taunton, Somerset.
The incident began late on the evening of Friday, July 17, when a blaze started in a garden and quickly spread to the adjacent home. Fire and Rescue crews from twelve stations responded, deploying eight fire engines to the scene on Oake Close.
Despite the intensity of the fire, the family living in the affected property was safely evacuated. Nearby residents were also asked to leave their homes as a precaution, concerned that the flames might spread further.
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A spokesperson from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service detailed the response: “Following several emergency calls, initially three fire engines were dispatched. Upon arrival, the incident commander requested an additional five engines, alongside an aerial ladder platform and a water bowser.”
Fire crews worked tirelessly throughout the night, using four hose reel jets, two main jets, breathing apparatus, and thermal imaging equipment to extinguish the fire. By approximately 2:45 a.m. on Saturday, most crews stood down, while two engines remained at the site to ensure safety.
The operation involved firefighters from Bampton, Cullompton, Tiverton, Taunton, Bridgwater, Dulverton, Street, Wellington, Williton, Wiveliscombe, Ilminster, and Martock.
Community members expressed their gratitude and concern on social media. Kelly Day, living opposite the incident, shared, “We honestly thought the fire would spread to us. Huge thanks to all the emergency services for their rapid response and support, as well as the parish council and school headteacher who supported evacuated residents. Our thoughts are with those who lost their homes.”
Daniel Bishop-O’Connor acknowledged the challenging conditions faced by firefighters: “With the current dry and hot weather, they had their work cut out. My thoughts are with everyone affected.”
Sharon Slade highlighted the community spirit: “Thankfully nobody was hurt, and evacuation was timely. The fire service and local emergency response team acted swiftly. Tonight, the community truly came together. Our thoughts are with the two families who sadly lost their homes.”
The fire service confirmed that while the cause is being investigated, the damage to the house was significant. Neighborhood vigilance and prompt emergency response prevented the fire from spreading further.