East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Mobilising & Communication Centre received a call at 03.17 on 5th February 2009, outlining a person was trapped in a fire in Nelson Road, Hastings.

Three appliances were immediately dispatched to the scene from the Ridge and Bohemia Road community fire stations along with one Aerial Ladder Platform. Firefighters arrived on the scene at 03.22 and found heavy smoke being driven out of the front door of a purpose built block of flats with flames coming out of the rear room window from a fully developed fire.

Firefighters requested the attendance of another fire appliance at 03.28 and the flames were tackled from the ground using two hose reel jets and 1:7 foam. The Aerial Ladder Platform tackled the blaze from above.

Two teams of two carried out a search and rescue within the premises and one person was rescued. The male casualty was given first aid at the scene and rushed to hospital, but tragically died hours later.

The fire is currently under investigation from fire investigation officers and Sussex Police.

Important message from East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service:

If you suspect a fire in your home - Get out, Stay Out and call the Fire Service