10/07/08 Large Fire At Warehouse - Rye


More than 100 fire fighters are currently tackling a fire at Harbour Road, Rye.

Called just after 5.30am this morning, fire appliances from the Fire & Rescue Service are dealing with a fire, which has engulfed a number of units in a large furniture warehouse.

Whilst the main building has been destroyed Fire fighting operations are well under way and currently efforts are directed at extinguishing the fire whilst ensuring that it is contained and does not spread.

Des Prichard, Chief Fire Officer for East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: "Fire fighters from Rye encountered a developing fire situation which escalated significantly requiring additional resources from across the Service.

This has been a demanding and challenging operation, which has been successful from a joint agency perspective, and we are grateful for the support received from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and Kent Fire & Rescue Service.

Our main priorities now are to continue protecting the immediate area surrounding the fire and for our Mobilising Centre to continue to ensure that we have sufficient fire cover available in East Sussex and the City of Brighton & Hove for the remainder of this operation."

Chris Large, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, for East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service praised the crews at the scene and the staff in the Mobilising Centre for their hard work and efforts during a challenging and protracted incident. Chris also advised local residents that they should keep their windows and doors closed as the wind is currently strong but current dampening down of the fire will also assist in preventing embers from the fire entering properties.

The cause of the fire is not yet determined.

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