Firefighters in Canterbury worked overnight to put out a massive fire at a former Debenhams store. Over 40 firefighters were called to the scene on Canterbury High Street, just a short distance from the historic Canterbury Cathedral. The fire created a large amount of smoke, prompting authorities to advise people in the area to keep their windows and doors closed. Initially, five fire engines responded to the fire, but additional specialist units, including the Technical Rescue Unit and Urban Search and Rescue, were also deployed due to the intensity of the flames.
Advanced technology, such as drones equipped with thermal imaging, is being used by fire crews to assist in their firefighting efforts. The cathedral, founded in 597, has a rich history and was completely rebuilt between 1070 and 1077. Significant enhancements were made to the east end of the cathedral in the 12th century, following a fire in 1174. The building was initially destroyed by a fire in 1067, just a year after the Norman Conquest. The cathedral has undergone multiple rebuilding and expansion projects over the centuries.
A spokesperson for Kent Fire and Rescue Service issued a warning for people to keep their windows and doors closed around the Canterbury High Street area due to the large amount of smoke from the fire. Eight fire engines and a height vehicle are currently at the scene, working to extinguish the flames. The public is encouraged to share this advice with family and friends who may be affected by the smoke but may not have access to the internet. The fire crews are using specialist Merlo equipment to support their operation and are dedicated to tackling the fire efficiently and safely.
As fire crews continue to work on extinguishing the blaze, images and videos of the massive flames tearing through the former Debenhams building have circulated online. Drone footage captured the intensity of the fire, showing flames reaching up to 30 feet high. Residents in Canterbury were alarmed when they saw smoke billowing from the building, prompting a quick response from the fire department. The fire’s proximity to the historic Canterbury Cathedral raised concerns about potential damage to the historic structure, although firefighters are focused on containing the blaze and preventing further destruction.
The fire in Canterbury serves as a reminder of the critical work that firefighters carry out to protect communities and preserve historical landmarks. The coordination and expertise of the firefighting teams, coupled with the use of advanced technology, are essential in managing such incidents effectively. As the situation unfolds, the public is urged to follow safety instructions and stay informed about any developments. The efforts of the fire crews and emergency services in responding to the fire highlight the dedication and resilience of these essential workers in the face of challenging situations.
