Dagenham fire: Investigation launched into east London tower block blaze, search ops on

An investigation has been launched into the causes of a huge fire that engulfed a block of flats in east Londonon Monday morning.The London Fire Brigade, with more than 200 firefighters, responded to themajor fire incident. Two people have already been taken to the hospital, and more than 100 were evacuated from the block of flats in East London.

The search operation is still continuing at the mixed-use building located on Freshwater Road, Dagenham.

Thick black smoke was released from the buildingamid leaping flames. People living nearby were advised to keep their doors and windows closed.

The cause of the fire is still unknown, said LFB.

London Fire Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne said, “The building has several fire safety issues known to London Fire Brigade.”

A “simultaneous” evacuation of the building was carried out “immediately,” and a “significant” search and rescue operation is still underway, he further added.

The London Fire Brigade received the call for rescue at 02:44 local time (01:44 GMT).

The whole building was damaged by the fire, including the scaffolding surrounding the property and even the roof. The first fire crew arrived at the location within five minutes, and the second crew arrived in six minutes.

The aerial appliance was brought to the location in six minutes, involving almost 225 firefighters.

Station Commander Alan Bendell, who was at the scene, said, “Two of the brigade’s 32-metre turntable ladders are being used at the scene as aerial water towers to assist with tackling the fire from height.”

Ambulances were present to assist, and the LAS also mentioned that an air ambulance was dispatched.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper gave her regards to the firefighters and other emergency workers for their bravery and swift response to the fire.

Crews from Dagenham, Ilford, Romford, Barking, and local fire stations were at the location.

(With inputs from agencies)