A fire broke out on 12 August 2026 at the Castletown and Malew fire station on the Isle of Man, prompting a road closure near Ronaldsway Airport and a police warning for residents to stay indoors. No injuries have been reported, and the road has since reopened after crews brought the blaze under control.
Social media images showed thick smoke pouring from the Castletown fire station as the blaze took hold. Police shut the A5, which runs close to the Isle of Man airport at Ronaldsway, shortly before 18:00 BST while firefighters worked to contain the fire, though the route has now been reopened to traffic.
According to Manx Radio, the fire was reported at Castletown Fire Station with emergency services dispatched to the scene to deal with the incident.
What did police say about the risk to the public?
An Isle of Man Police spokesman said there was no immediate danger to residents but advised caution because of the smoke.
There is no direct fire risk to members of the public at this time and nobody is reported to have been injured as a result, however members of the public in the area are asked to stay indoors and where possible, close windows to avoid smoke inhalation.
Officers also urged drivers to steer clear of the immediate area and use the Castletown bypass as an alternative route while crews worked at the scene.
Was airport traffic disrupted?
Police said travellers with upcoming flights should check directly with Ronaldsway Airport and their airline for the latest information on any potential disruption. However, there was no indication that airport operations were affected by the fire at the time of reporting.
Had the fire station faced any previous issues?
Castletown Fire Station had previously been earmarked for replacement, according to an earlier report on Isle of Man infrastructure, which noted plans for a new £1.45 million combined fire and ambulance station to take over its role.
Key Facts
- Fire broke out at Castletown and Malew fire station on the Isle of Man on 12 August 2026.
- The A5 near Ronaldsway Airport was closed shortly before 18:00 BST and has since reopened.
- No injuries have been reported as a result of the blaze.
- Residents were advised to stay indoors and close windows to avoid smoke inhalation.
- Castletown Fire Station had previously been slated for replacement by a new £1.45 million combined fire and ambulance station.
