Fires in Barking and Dagenham

Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne said: "Overnight, firefighters tackled two significant fires in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.

“Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled a fire which affected a single storey portable cabin at a school on Green Lane in Dagenham. Although significant damage has been sustained to the portable cabin, which was used as a classroom, firefighters’ worked hard to contain the fire and prevented further damage to other school buildings. Most importantly, no one was injured.

“Additionally, eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters attended a flat fire on Mizzen Street in Barking. Firefighters ensured the damage was limited to one flat, which was sadly mostly destroyed. Around 50 people were led to safety from the property by firefighters, with one adult man and one adult woman taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service.

"We’re aware that these two fires have happened in the wake of several other fires in the Borough this year. This morning, local firefighters, officers, our Schools Team and our Community Engagement team are in the area to provide support to the local community.”

“Several affected residents were relocated to ensure their safety. Our firefighters and officers provided support to them during what was undoubtedly a difficult and distressing time. We also liaised with the local authority and housing association.

"Crews were on scene at both fires throughout the night damping down and we will remain on scene this afternoon monitoring any hotspots.

"I’d also like to thank our Control Officers who ensured crews were available to respond to other incidents in the area whilst these incidents were ongoing.”

Portable cabin fire - Dagenham

• Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled a portable cabin fire on Green Lane in Dagenham.
• Half of a single-storey portable cabin being used as a science room was damaged by fire.
• The Brigade's 999 Control Officers took around five calls to this incident, with the first call received at 0033. Control Officers mobilised crews from Dagenham, Ilford, Hornchurch and surrounding fire stations. The fire was under control by 0239.
• The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Flat fire - Barking

• Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled a fire at a residential block of flats on Mizzen Street in Barking.
• A four-roomed flat on the sixth floor of the seven-storey building was mostly destroyed by fire. Around 50 people were led to safety from the property by firefighters, with one adult man and one adult woman taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service.
• The Brigade's 999 Control Officers took over 10 calls to this incident, with the first call received at 0046. Control Officers mobilised crews from Barking, East Ham, Plaistow and surrounding fire stations to the scene. The fire was under control by 0148.
• The cause of the fire is believed to be accidental and is under investigation.