A fire broke out on the second floor of a five-storey residential building on Percy Street in Hanley on Thursday evening, prompting multiple residents to evacuate the premises. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to the incident at approximately 9:10 p.m., deploying four breathing apparatus teams and a hose reel jet to extinguish the flames.

The fire was reported to have started in a communal kitchen within the block, according to a spokeswoman for the fire service. Many occupants had already left the building by the time crews arrived on the scene. The blaze was brought under control without delay, and no injuries have been reported.

Investigations into the cause of the fire concluded that it was accidental. Emergency services praised the prompt evacuation by residents, which aided in ensuring their safety during the incident. The fire service continues to monitor the site as precautionary measures remain in place.