A major fire has erupted at The Promise School in Okehampton, Devon, this afternoon, with dramatic scenes showing flames engulfing the building and thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Emergency crews raced to the scene after receiving multiple calls reporting the blaze.
Emergency Response in Full Force
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the fire is ongoing at the school located on Dartmoor View. A substantial emergency response has been deployed, including six fire appliances, two aerial ladder platforms, and two water carriers. Police and ambulance services are also in attendance to support operations and ensure public safety.
Eyewitness Accounts Describe Dramatic Scenes
Local resident Glennon Walters reported that his three-year-old son spotted the dark smoke from their home window. "It was dark smoke, so that normally means something industrial," Walters told the BBC. "We knew it was up in the industrial estate just from the smoke, but we didn't realise it was the new school until we took the pictures."
Footage from near the scene captured flames leaping from the roof of the large school building, with smoke visible from a considerable distance. The fire service spokesperson stated that the incident prompted numerous emergency calls due to the severity of the visible flames and smoke.
Ongoing Situation at The Promise School
The blaze continues to be actively fought by fire crews as of late afternoon on February 22, 2026. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with no immediate reports of injuries. The school, a relatively new establishment in the area, has become the focus of a large-scale emergency operation.
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area to allow emergency vehicles clear access. Further updates are expected as firefighting efforts progress through the evening.
