Two people rescued after explosion in Poole

Fire crews from Poole and Westbourne were called to the semi-detached property at 1.47pm after reports of an explosion.

A woman was rescued on arrival from a ground floor flat and was treated at the scene by South Western Ambulance Service paramedics; two firefighters in breathing apparatus then rescued a man from the first floor flat, and he has since been taken to hospital in Bristol by air ambulance.

Officers from Dorset Police have evacuated nearby homes as a precaution and a safety cordon remains in place.

SGN is on scene and have isolated the gas supply; however, the focus of the investigation is on gas cylinders within the property.

Sterte Road remains closed but will be reopened as soon as debris has been cleared away safely.

Detective Inspector Jamie Halford, of Dorset Police, said, “This incident required a significant multi-agency response and I would like to thank all those involved.

“We are continuing to liaise with the fire service to establish the cause and have launched a detailed investigation into the incident.

“I am appealing for anyone with information that can assist our investigation to contact us.

“I would like to thank motorists and members of the public for their patience during the road closures, which have been necessary to allow the emergency services to deal with the incident and investigate the circumstances. I would also like to thank those residents who were evacuated for their co-operation.”