Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Bodgara Flats, Bodgara Way, Liskeard at 01/01/2013 15:07

At 1507hrs the first of eight fire calls was received at the Truro-based Fire Control reporting a fire in the hallway of a block of flats. Persons were reported trapped in flats above the fire including a man that had dialled 999 and stayed on the telephone line, receiving Fire Survival guidance from a fire control operator.

Two fire appliances from Liskeard, one fire appliance from Looe and an aerial ladder platform from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service's Crownhill Fire Station were mobilised.

Upon arrival, the first crew from Liskeard immediately requested a further fire appliance, which was sent from Bodmin and it was confirmed that persons were trapped. Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used two hosereels to extinguish the fire located in the hallway and staircase on the top floor landing of the block of flats, consisting of three floors and a basement, measuring 20 metres by 15 metres. Firefighters reassured two people trapped on the top floor and when the fire was extinguished and smoke cleared, they were led to safety. The two casualties along with a passer-by, who had entered the building to help, were suffering from the effects of smoke inhalation and were treated by paramedics. One of them was conveyed to hospital by ambulance as a precautionary measure.

The fire was confirmed out by 1540hrs and a joint fire and police investigation has begun to determine the cause of the fire.