Fire service gives arson response over Portsmouth tower block fire drama
An electric bike sparked a blaze on the 10th floor of a Portsmouth tower block - with the fire service now giving its verdict on whether it was deliberately started.
Residents of Brunel House in The Hard were forced to frantically flee the building after the sprinkler system was set off at around 1.40am today (Friday, February 13) after a fire erupted.
The blaze started after a charging electric bike caught alight near the top of the building, with the fire service now telling The News it is “not believed to be deliberate” with no investigation.
A raft of fire engines, police and ambulances, as well as an incident response vehicle, attended the incident as a cordon blocked off the road. Residents had to camp outside until a rest centre was set up.
The fire service initially said three people were treated at the scene but have now said four people needed care.
Giving an update, the fire service said in a statement: “Fortunately, the building’s sprinkler system activated, suppressing the fire to allow firefighters to extinguish it quickly upon arrival.
“Crews from Southsea, Cosham, Portchester and Fareham were alerted to the incident on The Hard at 1.40am. The charging e-bike in a 10th floor hallway caused fire and smoke, which the activated sprinkler helped to contain, when firefighters in breathing apparatus sets entered the building to extinguish the blaze.
“Whilst a number of residents were evacuated, several flats suffered damage from the water.
Four casualties were treated for smoke inhalation by South Central Ambulance Service paramedics, but were released at the scene.
“Nearby roads were closed to allow access for fire engines, before they began to leave the scene at around 5am.”
The fire service said blazes caused by lithium-ion batteries are increasing. “To stay safe, always choose trusted electronic products, handle them correctly, and dispose of them responsibly,” the statement added.
Safety Tips:
- Buy batteries and devices from reputable brands
- Charge using the correct equipment and follow manufacturer guidelines
- Dispose of old or damaged batteries properly at designated recycling points
- If a battery starts smoking or catches fire, move away immediately and call 999.