More than 40 firefighters called to late night house fire in Shirley

Southampton firefighters tackled a fire at a property on St James Road near the junction of Bellemoor Road in Shirley.

The first crews on the scene swiftly requested the support of additional fire engines, including the aerial ladder platform.

Redbridge, St Mary’s, Eastleigh, Totton and Hightown crews fought the blaze, with the initial call coming into the HIWFRS control room at 23:31.

Hampshsire Constabulary colleagues assisted with road closures, as firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze using six sets of breathing apparatus, four jets, four hose reels and tactical ventilation for smoke clearance.

The fire affected the ground and first floor as well as the roof of the semi-detached property.

Fortunately there were no casualties reported, with South Central Ambulance Service HART paramedics stood by in case they were required.

Relief crews were utilised throughout the duration of the incident, allowing those firefighters first at the scene to return to their stations.

HIWFRS firefighters distributed community safety materials to neighbouring properties before leaving the scene when the stop message came in at 03:58.

One fire engine returned in the morning to check for remaining hotspots.