A significant fire devastated the popular Dinosaur Cove attraction at Ocean Beach Pleasure Park in South Shields on December 26, 2023. The blaze broke out shortly before 19:00, prompting an extensive response from emergency services. Firefighters battled the flames into the early hours of December 27, with operations concluding around 03:30.
Witnesses reported that towering flames engulfed the attraction, leading to extensive damage. In total, six fire engines, specialist appliances, and three officers from the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service were deployed to manage the situation. Although the ambulance service was initially called to the scene, they were subsequently stood down as the fire was contained.
A police cordon was established in the area on Friday night and remained in place on Saturday morning. A spokesperson for the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service stated, “At the height of the incident, there were six fire engines, specialist appliances, and three officers on the scene. We will be supporting partner agencies with the investigation but cannot at this time confirm the cause of the fire.”
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with authorities working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. A police presence will continue at the site as inquiries proceed.
In a separate incident earlier this month, a family in Liverpool faced a similar crisis when a tumble dryer fire forced them to spend Christmas without their home. Claire Sayonas, 39, and her family experienced a frightening moment on December 11 when a small sound from the kitchen turned into a major emergency.
Claire was with her youngest daughter, Daisy, when she heard a “little pop.” Initially assuming it was nothing significant, she soon noticed a hazy atmosphere in her home. Rushing to the kitchen, she turned off the tumble dryer, which was not visibly ablaze at the time.
These incidents highlight the dangers posed by household appliances and the importance of fire safety measures. Local authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and ensure that fire prevention practices are followed in their homes.
