25 February 2008

Fire at the grand hotel

Around 400 guests were evacuated from The Grand Hotel on Brighton Seafront as fire broke out in a sixth floor bedroom on Saturday 16th February 2008.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service received the first emergency call at 20.11 stating that smoke was coming from the hotel's upstairs windows and that people were trapped inside. Fire crews from Brighton, Hove, Barcombe, Lewes, Rodean, and Newhaven were immediately despatched to the scene.

Over 50 firefighters and 10 fire engines from East and West Sussex were involved in the operation. Firefighters tackled the fire using an Aerial Ladder Platform, while four firefighters wearing breathing apparatus undertook search and rescue operations inside the building. The fire was bought under control by 23:38 and fire damage was restricted to one room.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service fire investigation team believe that the fire was caused by a faulty air conditioning unit that had been left blowing hot air into the hotel room. Peter Cox, Fire Investigation Officer stated, "We have conducted a comprehensive investigation of the fire room and this has left us with evidence that the fire was caused by the air conditioning unit under one of the bedroom windows. There had been a young couple staying in the room but they were not there at the time the fire started. The room had been empty for about 30 minutes"

For further information about electric heater safety contact East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service Community Safety Team on 0800 1777069.