A library avoided major damage after a fire broke out on its roof, triggering dozens of emergency calls and a large-scale response.
Firefighters were called to Teignmouth Library in Devon at about 1.25pm today after fire control received multiple reports of flames coming from the roof.
Crews from Dawlish, Torquay, Newton Abbot and Teignmouth attended the scene, alongside an aerial ladder platform from Torquay. On arrival, firefighters gained entry to the building and confirmed flames were issuing from the roof.
Four appliances were mobilised in total, with crews isolating solar panels before using water jets to tackle the blaze. Firefighters used three hose reel jets and one 45mm jet to extinguish the fire.
Devon and Cornwall Police attended to assist with traffic and crowd control while emergency services dealt with the incident.
The fire was brought under control at about 2.25pm and the incident was later confirmed closed at 7.46pm.
A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze caused around ten per cent damage to the roof, but did not spread inside the building.
A library spokesperson said: “Unfortunately there was a fire on the roof of Teignmouth Library earlier today which looks like it was caused by a battery on the solar panels. We are incredibly grateful to Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service who promptly put out the fire. Luckily the fire did not penetrate the building and was isolated to the roof.
“As we were closed today we are also very grateful to members of the public for alerting the emergency services. We’re currently assessing the damage to see what works need to be carried out before we can reopen. Please keep an eye on socials for any updates.
“In the meantime you can use any other Libraries Unlimited library in Devon or Torbay and any loans from Teignmouth will not be subject to late fees. You can also access ebooks and audiobooks for free online from BorrowBox with your library card.
“Fire brigade had 61 calls and were there very quickly.”
Fire crews later confirmed the cause of the blaze was accidental.
