Fire crews tackling an urgent underground rescue were suddenly diverted to a blazing car on a major Devon road – before being called out yet again in a demanding overnight shift.
Firefighters from Newton Abbot were initially mobilised during the night to assist colleagues in Plymouth with an underground rescue. However, while en route, the crew received an urgent update from the control room redirecting them to reports of a vehicle fire on the A38 near Ivybridge.
The crew arrived on scene just 21 seconds after being informed of the incident, where they found an internal combustion engine vehicle well alight, with flames and smoke issuing from all areas.
The incident commander instructed the appliance driver to block both lanes and close the highway to ensure safety. Two firefighters wearing breathing apparatus were then committed to tackle the blaze.
Crews used a hose reel jet to extinguish the fire and deployed battery-operated spreaders to force open the bonnet and doors, ensuring no remaining flames or hot spots.
Firefighters from Ivybridge also attended, providing additional water supplies and assisting in managing water run-off to minimise environmental impact.
Despite the lengthy operation, the night was not over.
While returning to station, the crew was mobilised to a third incident as they approached Newton Abbot. This time, firefighters were required to assist an occupant trapped inside a bedroom after a door mechanism failed.
To avoid damaging the front door, crews used a 13.5-metre ladder to access the fourth-floor window. A firefighter then used small tools to open the bedroom door from inside, allowing the occupant to be safely released.
After returning to the station, crews cleaned equipment and replenished supplies before finally finishing at around 0430, leaving only a short window for rest before the next shift.
