Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) Chief Executive Ann Millington has issued a statement following the tragic towerblock fire in London in the early hours of this morning (June 14).
Ms Millington said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the fire at Grenfell Tower in London and our colleagues from London Fire Brigade and all the emergency services working in difficult conditions to deal with this tragic incident.
Please only call us in a genuine emergency as we respond to major incident in #GrenfellTower #NorthKensington. Call 111 for medical advice. pic.twitter.com/sqdNWstlyP
— London Ambulance Service 💙 (@Ldn_Ambulance) June 14, 2017
” KFRS has an agreement in place to support neighbouring fire and rescue services where required, however our support was not needed at this time.”
Shoutout all the firefighters too who risked their lives to save others – Heroes 🇬🇧 #GrenfellTower pic.twitter.com/DT4f2GfoHf
— Off Colour (@Off_Colour) June 14, 2017
Six people are confirmed dead, 20 in critical care and more than 70 in hospital following the blaze. More than 250 firefighters and 100 ambulance medics, plus with 40 fire engines and a range of other specialist vehicles, including 14 fire rescue units in attendance, with 40 fire engines and a range of other specialist vehicles, including 14 fire rescue units, attended the scene at the 24-storey block.
Our crews are still working to bring the #GrenfellTower fire under control and are carrying out systematic searches https://t.co/0m5atGFFIU pic.twitter.com/D2M2eqaIu1
— London Fire Brigade (@LondonFire) June 14, 2017
KFRS is giving assurances and advice to Kent residents who may have concerns about fire safety.
A spokesman said: “It is important to remember that fires of this type are extremely rare and that most fires do not spread further than one or two rooms. High rise buildings are designed to contain and prevent fire from spreading.”
Residents are advised to make sure they know the fire safety procedures and evacuation plans for their specific building.
For more information, follow the fire safety tips for residents of high-rise properties, including advice about what to do in the event of a fire.
If you’re concerned about whether your home is safe from fire, please contact the KFRS home safety team for advice or for a free Safe and Well Visit by calling 0800 923 7000
Helping out
A justgiving page has been launched to help those affected by the Grenfell Tower fire. Donate at https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/familiesofgrenfelltower
For those in or going to London any clothing, toiletries, children’s toys, or baby items, can be taken to Craven Cottage Main Reception, located midway along the Johnny Haynes Stand on Stevenage Road, which will be open until 7pm.
Alternatively, if you go closer to Motspur Park, items are accepted at the Training Ground Reception.
These items will then be taken to the drop off point tonight at Clements Church, 95 Sirdar Road.
Eye Catchers in Margate are also taking in donations to go up to London if anyone can help with clothes toiletries and toys etc contact Kristy Phillippa Clapton for delivery details