A FIRE investigation team will today look into what caused a major blaze at Lord Street flats in Douglas late last night (Tuesday).
The incident led to a number of people being evacuated from their properties and cared for at the Sea Terminal in Douglas by the Red Cross. A handful of residents and a firefighter needed medical treatment.
While on their way to the fire, which happened at 11pm, crews received an update telling them there had been an explosion with multiple flats on fire but it later transpired the fire was contained in one first floor flat.
It had blown out the windows of the flat which is on the corner of Lord Street and Barrack Street.
Two crew members wearing breathing apparatus rescued two casualties from the entrance of the flat and they were handed over to the Ambulance Service for treatment.
A further resident of the building was taken to Noble's Hospital suffering from shock along with a firefighter who was showing signs of heat stress. The latter was later discharged after a general check up.
The condition of the other casualties is not known at this time.
The flat suffered extensive fire and smoke damage to the living quarters and there was slight smoke damage to the other flats contained within the block.
Crews - both inside and outside - extinguished the fire using hose reels and quickly brought the blaze under control.
A medical oxygen cylinder was removed - it has been warmed slightly but was not directly involved in the fire.
Two crew members wearing breathing apparatus were sent into the property to search the remaining flats to confirm whether everyone had been accounted for.
The majority of residents were allowed back into their properties shortly after 12.25am.
After an initial investigation into what caused the fire a fire investigation team will be carrying out a thorough investigation today.
The Fire and Rescue Service said it would like to thank the residents of Lord Street flats for their co-operation.
Picture by Tessa Hawley
Also see: Major fire at Lord Street flats in Douglas
