Firefighters tackle Paignton blaze after neighbour raises alarm

Firefighters from Paignton and Torquay tackled a fire on the first floor of a property in Paignton this morning (Tuesday, February 21).

Two fire engines from Paignton were called to Norman Road in Paignton, following a call from a neighbour whose domestic smoke alarm had activated and they could smell smoke coming from the property next door.

The three-storey house is believed to be empty with the possibility of building works being carried out on it, said a fire service spokesperson.

The Paignton crews were on scene within minutes and entered the property to locate the source of the fire, which was quickly found on the first floor.

At 6.50am, an assistance message was received for a further two pumping appliances, which were mobilised from Torquay, to support with searching the property and breathing apparatus.

Crews made good and steady progress bringing the fire under control using four breathing apparatus and hose reel jets, followed by positive pressure ventilation fans to clear the premises and neighbouring property of smoke. The fire was soon confirmed to be out and the incident under control at 8am.

The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by one of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service's fire investigation officers and the police. While the fire has been extinguished, one fire engine is still in attendance assisting with fire investigation. There were no casualties.