Hundreds of children were evacuated from a primary school when a huge fire broke out, causing severe damage inside.
Emergency crews were called to St Athan Primary School in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales, this morning. Thick smoke was seen rising from the scene as firefighters rushed to the scene.
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the blaze, which broke out in its roof, has now been contained to the school’s ICT suite. Confirming the school will be shut the rest of the week, Vale of Glamorgan council leader Rob Thomas said: “After news of a fire at St Athan Primary School broke earlier today the only thing that mattered was no one was hurt.
“Thankfully, the professionalism of staff, who quickly followed emergency protocols, along with the swift attendance of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, ensured this was the case. I’d like to recognise those individuals for that response, which meant a serious situation did not become tragic. Thank you for your actions, I know I speak for the entire community when I say we are extremely grateful.”
Five fire engines, two water bowsers, and several specialist officers brought the fire under control, WalesOnline reported. A spokesperson for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service said: “Today we responded to a report of a fire at St Athan Primary School.
“SWFRS mobilised five fire engines, two water bowsers, and several specialist officers to bring the fire under control. The fire is now contained to a small block of classrooms and an ICT suite.
“Crews are exposing the roof area where the fire originated to prevent further fire spread, heat and smoke damage. Approximately 240 pupils, teaching staff and contractors were safely evacuated from the school, and there are no reports of any injuries.
“We are working with on-site contractors and local authority education staff to establish the cause of the fire. Local authority personnel are invoking their education continuity plans and will release information on these in due course.”
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