Hundreds of IKEA shoppers were evacuated from the store in Exeter on Thursday afternoon after a van reportedly struck a sprinkler system in the car park beneath the building, triggering fire alarms. Customers were instructed to leave their purchased goods at the checkout tills and exit the premises immediately.
Evacuation Details
The evacuation occurred around 1:00 PM local time. According to reports from Devon Live, the incident began when a van hit a sprinkler system in the car park located under the store, causing water to spray and setting off the fire alarms. The store was cleared as a precautionary measure, with staff guiding shoppers to safety.
Emergency services were called to the scene, but no injuries have been reported. The extent of the damage to the sprinkler system and the store itself is not yet known.
Customer Response
Shoppers described the evacuation as orderly but surprising. One customer, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "We were just browsing when the alarms went off. Staff told us to leave everything and go. It was a bit chaotic but everyone remained calm."
Another shopper added: "I had a trolley full of items. I just had to leave it all behind and walk out. It's frustrating, but safety comes first."
Store Operations
IKEA Exeter has not yet released an official statement regarding the incident. The store is expected to remain closed until the sprinkler system is repaired and the area is deemed safe. Customers who left their purchases behind have been advised to contact the store for further instructions.
This is a breaking news story, and more details will be provided as they become available.
