Fire crews remain at the scene of a significant blaze at an industrial park on Styles Close in Sittingbourne, which broke out on Friday, 25 April.

At the height of the incident, ten fire engines, a height vehicle, and specialist support, including a bulk water carrier and firefighting robots, were deployed by Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS). Firefighters, wearing full protective equipment and breathing apparatus, worked tirelessly using high-pressure hose reels, main jets, and uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs) to tackle the flames.

Timeline of Events

• Initial Response (25 April, 11:55am):
  Fire crews responded to reports of heavy smoke. Residents and businesses near Styles Close were urgently advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke inhalation risks.

• 3:20pm Update:
  Eight fire engines, a height vehicle, and the Volunteer Response Team were on-site, supporting operations and crew welfare. Firefighters worked closely with local businesses to mitigate impact and provide safety advice.

• 7:05pm Update:
  Ten fire engines and a height vehicle continued efforts as smoke remained a significant concern. Public health advice to keep windows and doors closed remained in place.

• 11:10pm Update:
  The situation stabilised enough that advice for nearby residents was lifted. Attendance was reduced to three fire engines and a height vehicle, with crews monitoring the scene for remaining hotspots.

• 10:30am Update (26 April):
  Two fire engines remain at the site. Firefighters are systematically working through the building to ensure all areas are fully extinguished and safe.

Equipment and Support

The large-scale response included:

• Uncrewed Ground Vehicles (UGVs) for safer firefighting in hazardous conditions

• Drones for aerial assessment

• Bulk water carriers to supply additional water

• The KFRS Volunteer Response Team providing crew support

Public Reassurance

Authorities confirmed that there is no longer a need for local residents to keep their windows and doors closed, but crews are expected to remain on scene into the weekend to complete safety checks.

No injuries have been reported. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

A KFRS spokesperson thanked the public for their cooperation and advised businesses in the vicinity to remain vigilant for any signs of residual smoke.

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