Over 100 Firefighters Combat Major Blaze in South London

More than 100 firefighters are currently engaged in extinguishing a significant fire that has erupted on High Street in Penge, a district in south London. The blaze began early in the morning on October 7, 2023, igniting a two-storey terraced shop, with a substantial portion of the ground floor engulfed in flames.

Fire crews have deployed a 32-metre turntable ladder to tackle the fire from above, while the Brigade’s drone team is assisting the Incident Commander by providing enhanced situational awareness. Currently, 15 fire appliances are on the scene, mobilized from various stations including Beckenham, Forest Hill, Woodside, and West Norwood.

Safety Measures and Community Impact

As a precautionary measure, neighboring properties have been evacuated, and local residents are instructed to keep their windows and doors closed to mitigate the effects of smoke. A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade stated that there is significant traffic disruption in the area due to the large number of emergency vehicles, and the High Street is currently closed to the public. Residents have been advised to avoid the vicinity until further notice.

The fire was reported to the Brigade’s Control Office at 04:30, prompting an immediate response. As of now, the cause of the fire remains undetermined, and officials are working diligently to bring the situation under control.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by emergency services in urban environments, where swift action can prevent further damage and ensure public safety. Updates will be provided as the situation develops.