Smoke seen pouring from Southend care home as fire crews respond

Emergency services rushed to Catherine Lodge on Baxter Avenue, Southend, after a fire broke out in one of the flats.

Thick smoke was seen billowing from a property within the care home, prompting a swift response from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service. Three fire crews are currently at the scene, alongside paramedics and Essex Police officers.

All residents have been evacuated from the building. Smoke alarms inside the home continue to sound, and firefighters are working to contain the fire and ensure the building is fully cleared.

Catherine Lodge, built in 1984 and refurbished in 2006, provides residential care for older adults and can accommodate up to 39 residents. The facility is staffed 24 hours a day and has an on-site manager to oversee day-to-day operations.

A nearby resident, who asked not to be named, said: “You could see the smoke coming out of the window and hear the alarms going off. It’s worrying, especially knowing there are older people living there, but it looks like the emergency services got there really quickly.”

The public are advised to avoid the area while emergency services continue their work. Baxter Avenue has been closed by the police.