Substation fire in Exeter causes smoke and a power warning

What happened

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service was called shortly after 6am on Sunday to a fire at an electrical substation near Mint Meadow Church, off Fore Street, in the centre of Exeter. Six fire engines and a command support unit from Honiton attended. The service said the fire was causing a lot of smoke and advised nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed. It also warned that some properties might lose power. The cause has not been confirmed, and it is not reported whether supply was in fact disrupted or whether the fire was later extinguished.

Contributing factors

Not reported. The fire service said the cause had not been confirmed.

Lessons learned

1. A substation fire in a town centre can produce heavy smoke, so nearby residents may need clear advice to close windows and doors.
2. While crews are still tackling the fire, warn properties of possible supply disruption rather than stating that power has been lost.
3. Do not assign a cause until it is confirmed; early public reports may only establish that a substation is involved.

Source

northnorfolknews.co.uk