Around 70 firefighters and ten fire engines are currently battling a large blaze at an industrial unit on Kemp Road in Dagenham, East London, with local residents warned to keep doors and windows shut due to heavy smoke.
The fire broke out at 9.57pm on Wednesday night, according to the London Fire Brigade (LFB), who confirmed that the blaze is within an industrial unit containing tyres, where a significant area is alight.
Fire crews deployed to Kemp Road
Firefighters are working to bring the blaze under control, with ten fire engines and approximately 70 firefighters dispatched to the scene. The LFB has not yet reported any injuries, and the cause of the fire is currently unknown.
The industrial unit is located in a commercial area of Dagenham, a borough in East London known for its industrial estates and automotive heritage. The presence of tyres in the unit is likely to produce thick, black smoke, which can be hazardous if inhaled.
Residents advised to stay indoors
In a statement, the London Fire Brigade urged people living in the vicinity of Kemp Road to take precautions due to the heavy smoke affecting the area. "Residents in the area are advised to keep their doors and windows closed," the LFB said, as smoke from the burning tyres may linger in the air for some time.
The warning is particularly important for vulnerable individuals, such as those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and young children, who may be more susceptible to the effects of smoke inhalation. The LFB has not issued an evacuation order, but locals are being encouraged to avoid the immediate area to allow emergency services to work.
Ongoing incident and updates
This is a live incident, and the London Fire Brigade is expected to provide further updates as the situation develops. Fire crews remain on the scene, and efforts are focused on containing the fire to prevent it from spreading to adjacent buildings.
Residents are advised to monitor local news and official LFB channels for the latest information. The brigade has not yet provided an estimated time for when the fire will be fully extinguished, and the aftermath of the blaze, including any potential damage to the surrounding area, will be assessed once the fire is under control.
