If you see a large number of firefighters in a Sevenoaks tower block today, it's nothing to panic about.

Crews from Kent Fire and Rescue Service will taking part in a training exercise, practicing their response to a fire in high rise building.

Five fire engines, around 25 firefighters and a height vehicle will attend the simulated scenario between the seventh and eighth floors at Tubs Hill House, on London Road.

The drama unfolds after a 'fire' breaks out between the seventh and eighth floors.

They will also be responding to four 'missing' people in the exercise.

Lifts have been stripped out so crews will have to tackle stairs using breathing apparatus weighing 16.6kg and another 9kg of protective clothing.

Exercise director, Sevenoaks watch manager, Danny Barrett, said: "Fires in high rise buildings present a range of logistical and physical challenges and can be an extremely hazardous environment for firefighters. It's essential that we practice our emergency response in an environment that is as realistic as possible.

He added: "We are really grateful to Prime Place for the use of their building, which is currently in the process of being renovated from offices to residential units and would also like to thank Buxton Building Contractors Limited for their assistance and allowing us to undertake the exercise."

Crews will also be testing the procedures for command and control, the effectiveness of communications and other firefighting tactics available to them; such as fog spike and positive pressure ventilation fans.

Chairman of the Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority, Nick Chard will be watching today.

He said: "It's important that as members of the fire authority we get to see what our front line staff are up against. They do a fantastic job of serving the local community; protecting lives and property and making a positive difference every day. Watching them train highlights the challenges they face and what an exceptional job they do in keeping us safe."

For more information on fire safety in a high-rise buildings phone KFRS on 0800 923 7000 or visit www.kent.fire-uk.org/your_safety/escaping_from_a_high-rise.aspx

The training will take place between 10am and midday.