Six fire engines and approximately 40 firefighters responded to a blaze affecting four vehicles belonging to a local Jewish volunteer ambulance service on Highfield Court in Golders Green.
The fire resulted in damage to four Hatzalah ambulances. The intense heat caused multiple cylinders on the vehicles to explode, leading to shattered windows in a nearby residential building. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
The Brigade’s 999 Control officers received the first of 56 emergency calls regarding the fire at 1:40 AM. Fire crews were dispatched from Hendon, West Hampstead, Mill Hill, Willesden, and Kentish Town fire stations. The situation was brought under control by 3:06 AM.
The cause of the incident is currently being investigated by both the Metropolitan Police Service and the London Fire Brigade.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Paul Askew stated, “Early this morning, the Brigade’s control room took the first of 56 calls reporting a fire on Highfield Court, Golders Green.”
He continued, “Upon arrival, crews were met by a well-developed fire involving four ambulances. Several cylinders stored in the vehicles exploded because of the heat, causing damage to the windows of a nearby residential block. Residents from the immediate area were evacuated to a rest centre as a precaution while crews worked to bring the incident under control. The fire was safely extinguished overnight.”
Askew acknowledged the potential impact on the local community, particularly among Jewish residents, and noted that the Brigade’s Community Engagement Team visited the rest centre to assist those affected. He assured that they would continue to support the local community in the days ahead.
Bildquelle: Foto von Yangki Suara auf Unsplash