Fire at Hoo Zoo: Quick Response Saves Animals, Attraction Closed for Day
A fire broke out in an office block at Hoo Zoo in Shropshire, United Kingdom, on Monday morning, prompting a swift response from Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service. The blaze, which was contained to an office near the main entrance, caused the zoo to close for the day, with staff contacting ticket holders to rearrange visits. The zoo confirmed that all animals were safe and well, thanks to the quick actions of the fire crews and the zoo’s team.
The fire was reported in an office area, and crews used four breathing apparatus, three hose reel jets, and one main jet to tackle the blaze. Will Dorrell, a zoo representative, told BBC Radio Shropshire that the office was located next to the main entrance, shop, and café, and if the fire had started half an hour earlier, it could have engulfed those areas as well. Two owners were hospitalized for smoke inhalation but were later discharged. The cause of the fire is not yet known, and an investigation is likely to follow.
Despite the disruption, the zoo expressed gratitude for the overwhelming positive and supportive response from the public. Dorrell emphasized that without the fire service, the outcome could have been much worse, potentially leading to significant animal losses. The zoo’s history spans over 200 years, evolving from a dairy farm into a major visitor attraction, and the team is committed to ensuring the safety of all its residents.
Hoo Zoo remains closed for the day, but the team is monitoring the animals and working to resume normal operations as soon as possible. The incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the dedication of both the zoo staff and the fire service in protecting both people and animals.
Shimanta Das 
