Firefighters were called to reports of a fire in St Osyth this afternoon after a bonfire was left unattended and allowed to spread.
On arrival, crews confirmed that several structures including chalets were affected by the fire, which covered an area of around 30 square meters.
Firefighters worked alongside the electric board to ensure the area, which includes overhead powerlines, is safe.
At 1 pm, the officer in charge advised that the incident had been ‘sectorised’ – divided into separate areas to ensure crews prevent it from spreading.
At 1.25pm, the officer in charge reported that the fire was surrounded.
At 2 pm, the officer in charge advised that the Red Cross has been called to the scene due to the impact the fire has had on the chalets – unfortunately, several people have been left homeless.
The fire was extinguished by 2.33pm. Two dogs were rescued by firefighters. One chalet has been destroyed, while another has suffered damage to its roof and a third has been affected externally. A car has also been damaged.
Station Manager Steve Wintrip said: “Firefighters have done a fantastic job here today of preventing this fire, which was spreading rapidly when they arrived, from reaching any further chalets.
“As well as it being a very warm day, crews were working against the wind from the coast in a challenging situation – this could easily have affected many more people and their property.”
“This once again shows how dangerous it can be to leave bonfires unattended or positioned near to anything which may lead to it spreading. If you are planning on starting one, please position it well away from any buildings, sheds or fences – and keep a close eye on it until it is fully extinguished.”
