Firefighters have been battling a fire in Borehamwood town centre this evening.
Several crews were called to an address in Shenley Road after being alerted to a fire at around 5.40pm above a parade of shops.
Firefighters were on the scene within minutes with Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue warning members of the public to stay away from the area.
It is not clear yet exactly what caught fire but it was near some flats above a takeaway. The fire appeared to be outside a building rather than inside.
There have been no reports of any injuries although there was lots of smoke which has caused some damage.
Sophia Jones, 19, was heading out for a jog in Whitehouse Avenue when she noticed the fire. She immediately rang 999 while also alerting neighbours to the fire.
The fire seen from Whitehouse Avenue near Borehamwood Tyres. Credit: Sophia Jones
She said: "It didn’t look like anyone was doing anything about the fire, people seemed oblivious.
"I began waving and knocking on doors and lots of people ended up coming down.
"The flames were getting bigger and it was spreading but the fire brigade were there within two minutes. They told everyone to get back and taped off the scene.
"I just wanted to make sure everyone was safe."
Firefighters tackling the flames in Shenley Road. Credit: Sophia Jones
A fire engine in Shenley Road. Credit: Sophia Jones
Sophia said she saw five fire engines at the scene, including an aerial ladder which was stationed across Shenley Road.
The ladder stretched over the top of the building helping crews put out the flames.
Crews from Borehamwood, Potters Bar, and Watford attended.
Station commander Lee Slipanczewski tweeted: "Hard work from crews prevented further escalation with good use of the aerial ladder platform and help from Hertfordshire Police."
Several crews from Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue attended the scene. Credit: Sophia Jones
Sophia’s mum Sam also alerted neighbours to the fire but she has been quick to praise her daughter’s bravery and quick thinking to call the emergency services.
The fire was brought safely under control with the area cleared of emergency services by 8pm.
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