By Mark Mackay

FIRE-FIGHTERS rushed to cottages at Balgowan Sawmill, Tibbermore, yesterday after fire broke out to the rear of one of the properties.

Residents were evacuated from surrounding properties and a 200-metre exclusion zone set up due to concerns over gas cylinders on the site.

The fire spread quickly and one cottage was soon engulfed in flames as fire crews worked to stop its spread to surrounding properties. Nanny Lynn Harrison was in one of the cottages when the fire is believed to have started.

“We heard a loud bang from outside, just before the next door neighbour came in and told us to evacuate the house,” she said.

Emergency services were contacted shortly after 1.15 pm and diversions quickly set up on surrounding roads.

In addition to the gas cylinders, fire-fighters were hampered in their efforts to control the fire by a strong wind.

Commander (B Division) Angus Gellatly said, “On the site were oxyacetylene cylinders and various other compressed gasses that when in contact with heat can react violently.

“Ground monitors were put in place to remove the need for fire-fighters to be involved face to face with the cylinders.”

He said one cottage had been “completely involved” in the fire, while crews had worked to protect five surrounding properties from radiated heat.

Given the presence of the cylinders, the fire brigade will retain a presence on the site for 24 hours, using thermal imaging cameras to check whether cylinders have cooled and can be moved.

Alternative accommodation for the residents was set up at Perth Grammar School.