06/08/2015

Upminster Fire Caused By Lightning Strike

A woman has escaped a fire at her home, which is believed to have been caused by a lightning strike.

Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers were called to the semi-detached house on Humber Drive, at about 20:20 on Wednesday.

Around half of the roof and part of the first floor was damaged by fire.

Watch Manager Mark McLachlan was at the scene. He said: "As we arrived there was a big cloud of smoke above the property and flames were about to break through the roof.

"The crews did a very good job, they got to work quickly and worked hard to bring the fire under control particularly Firefighter Springford and Firefighter Hutchison whose initial actions saved the house."

Firefighters from Hornchurch, Dagenham, Romford and Harold Hill fire stations attended the blaze.

(MH/JP)

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