Firefighters from across the Isle of Wight rushed to tackle a fire at a former care home in Sandown late on Wednesday evening.
The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were called just before 10pm, with over four fire engines arriving at the scene.
Among the resources deployed was an aerial ladder platform, which helped firefighters gain access and tackle the flames from above.
Six firefighters entered the building wearing breathing apparatus, reportedly searching the site which neighbours say may have been used by squatters.
Crews used three hose reels and a powerful jet to fight the fire. Fire engines came from Bembridge, Sandown, Newport, and Shanklin, along with a command unit from Newport.
One crew even cut short a firefighter’s birthday celebration to join the emergency response.
The initial teams’ quick efforts stopped the fire from spreading to the roof of the vacant property.
Fire investigators are now on scene as the cause of the fire remains unknown.
A joint investigation has been launched between the Isle of Wight Fire Service and Hampshire Police to determine what sparked the blaze.
Originally published by UKNIP.
