Emergency crews battled a significant blaze at an industrial building on Ashford Road, Hythe Friday night after a wood burner was reportedly left unattended.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) was alerted to the incident at 7:45 PM on December 19. Five fire engines and a bulk water carrier were dispatched to the scene, where crews found the structure well-alight.
Firefighters utilized specialized equipment to gain entry and suppress the flames, including:
- Breathing Apparatus: Teams entered the smoke-filled building to locate the seat of the fire.
- Forced Entry Tools: Crews used Haligan bars and “Enforcer” door-breaching tools to access secured areas.
- Advanced Firefighting: Personnel deployed fog spikes—devices that pierce walls to spray mist into enclosed spaces—alongside high-pressure main jets.
Kent Police also attended the scene to assist with site security and traffic management. The operation lasted several hours, with the final crews standing down at 12:17 AM today, Saturday 20 December. KFRS officials confirmed there were no reported injuries. Following a preliminary investigation, fire investigators believe the cause of the fire was accidental, stemming from a wood-burning stove that had been left alight inside the premises.