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Firefighters in action, Mitcham, Surrey, WW2
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Firefighters in action, Mitcham, Surrey, WW2
Firefighters in action following a flying bomb incident in Western Road, Mitcham, Surrey, where drums of amyl acetate were involved. They are moving the drums away from the fire; burning amyl acetate can be seen spreading over the surface of the water which has been applied to keep the drums cool. Date: 1944
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Media ID 14157302
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans Picture Library
1944 Action Aftermath Attack Auxiliary Blaze Blitz Bomb Bombed Bombing Burning Chemical Chemicals Containers Drums Flames Flammable Incident Inflammable Mitcham Premises Raid Services Smoky Surrey Acetate Firefighter Firefighters Firefighting Fireman Firemen
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In this evocative black-and-white photograph, a team of brave firefighters from the London Fire Brigade (LFB) are seen in action following a devastating flying bomb incident in Western Road, Mitcham, Surrey, during World War II. The date is 1944, and the intensity of the scene is palpable as the firefighters work tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent further damage. A flying bomb, also known as a V1, has struck the premises, and the aftermath of the attack reveals a smoky and chaotic scene. The firefighters are carefully moving drums of flammable chemicals, specifically amyl acetate, away from the fire. The burning amyl acetate can be seen spreading over the surface of the water that has been applied to keep the drums cool. The 1940s were a time of great hardship and danger for the people of London, with the city enduring relentless air raids and bombing attacks. The fire services, including the LFB, played a crucial role in protecting the population and minimizing the damage caused by these attacks. The firefighters in this photograph are part of the Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS), which was formed in 1938 to supplement the regular fire brigade in the event of a major emergency. Their courage and dedication are evident as they work to extinguish the flames and prevent the fire from spreading further. The night is dark and the scene is lit only by the flickering flames and the occasional glare of the fire trucks' lights. The smoke billows into the night sky, a stark reminder of the destruction and chaos that war brings. The firefighters' determined expressions and focused actions speak volumes about their commitment to their duty and their community. This powerful image captures the essence of the Blitz spirit and the resilience of the British people during a time of great adversity. It is a testament to the bravery and selflessness of the firefighters who risked their lives to protect their communities and keep the flames of war at bay.
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