Five people injured after explosion at block of flats – with four fire engines at the scene

A SUSPECTED gas explosion at a block of flats has left five people injured.

The blast hit the homes in Skelmersdale, Lancashire shortly before 6pm with a force that neighbours say shook the ground.

BBC

Fire engines at the scene of the explosion[/caption]

BBC

Five people were injured in the blast[/caption]

Lancashire Fire said they were aware of a “number of casualties” being treated by paramedics

A number of nearby residents reported on social media hearing “the ground shake”, LancsLive reports.

“It’s in front of mine, felt my whole house shake,” said one woman.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue said three people are in hospital.

One has a possible head injury not believed to be life-threatening, and the other two for precautionary checks.

Two other people escaped from the flat and did not need go to hospital.

“Four fire engines from Skelmersdale, Ormskirk and Bamber Bridge have been called to an explosion in a property on Tanfields, Skelmersdale,” said a spokesman.

“Firefighters are working with Lancashire Police and North West Ambulance Service to make the scene safe and treat those people who have been affected by the explosion.

“Public are advised to keep clear of the area whilst the emergency services deal with the incident.”

A number of people living in the area have been evacuated.