Blackout reported following fire on Helliers Road, Chard

Six households lost power after firefighters tackled a house fire in Chard, and the electricity supply had to be disconnected for safety reasons.

Emergency crews were called to a property on Helliers Road on the morning of Tuesday, September 8, after smoke was seen coming from the home.

Firefighters brought the blaze under control and remained at the scene while the area was made safe.

National Grid Electricity Distribution said it attended the property at the request of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to disconnect the electricity supply.

Fire crews responding to the property fire in Chard. (Image: Chard Fire Station)

A spokesperson said: “Following a request from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, we attended a fire-affected property in Chard yesterday morning to safely isolate the electricity supply.

“Power was restored to six affected households at around 5pm, and we'd like to thank them for their patience.”

Residents reported a power outage in the area following the incident, starting at around 5pm and lasting until around 9.30pm .

Firefighters from Chard, Ilminster, Ottery St Mary and Taunton attended the blaze after smoke was seen coming from the roof space of the property.

Crews used breathing apparatus, hose reel jets and thermal imaging cameras to tackle the fire and check for any remaining hotspots.

The fire was contained to the roof space and all occupants were safely accounted for.

While electricity has now been restored, the cause of the fire remains unknown.

A spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said the cause is currently “unknown” and investigations are ongoing.

The service has also used the incident to remind residents of the importance of having working smoke alarms and a clear escape plan in place for emergencies.