A CREDITON reptile rescue shelter that sustained a serious fire just before midnight yesterday, Tuesday, June 16, has issued an appeal for financial assistance to help it get through this difficult time.

Ben and Rachel Kupinski of Kups Reptile Rescue said they are “devastated” that more than 65 of the snakes, turtles, lizards and other reptiles are suffering from smoke inhalation and more than three animals have died.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service received multiple calls to report that the commercial building was on fire in the Mill Street area of Crediton just before midnight.

Fire appliances from Crediton and Middlemoor were mobilised along with an Aerial appliance from Danes Castle.

On arrival crews confirmed that there was a fire in the upper floor of the building and requested further support.

Additional fire engines from Topsham and South Molton were then mobilised along with an Incident Support Unit from Bovey Tracey and an Incident Command Unit from Honiton.

Fire crews used six sets of breathing apparatus, two hose reel jets and two safety jets to put out the fire and one thermal image camera and a positive pressure ventilation fan to check the fire was out and to clear the smoke from the building.

No-one was injured.

POWER SURGE?

DSFRS said that the cause of the fire was believed to be accidental, but Ben Kupinski said he believed that a power surge could have caused the blaze.

Ben said that a number of other businesses appeared to have been affected by a power surge, including a Crediton supermarket which resulted in five tills being put out of action.

Many windows at Kups Reptile Rescue were broken, it is believed caused by an explosion.

An area of ceiling was destroyed and part of the roof was believed damaged.

Ben said that a great deal of damage was caused but the worst was that not only did some snakes and reptiles die but all of them suffered from smoke inhalation.

He spent hours removing the snakes and other reptiles into boxes and these were removed to his and Rachel’s Willow Walk home, where they are now being cared for.

FUNDING APPEAL

The couple have issued an appeal for the donation plastic boxes with lids in which to keep the reptiles as well as assistance from people to help with cleaning.

If you can help, please telephone Rachel on 07761 723121.

They also issued an appeal for funding to help the non profit organisation through the crisis.

If you can help, please visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/kups-reptile-rescue .

Alternatively, donations can be left at the “Courier” office.

Donations are also required to fund veterinary costs, lighting, food, heating and adoptions of some of the reptiles.

The animal shelter is well-established in the town and has been operating for a number of years.