Firefighters Contain Blaze at Anderlecht Factory Storing Ammonia; No Injuries Reported
On November 15th, firefighters swiftly responded to a major fire at a factory located on Verwelkomingsstraat in Anderlecht, Brussels. The facility, known for storing ammonia, was evacuated, and no injuries were reported. An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a severe situation as the flames had already grown considerably, threatening to spread to an adjacent factory building. According to fire department spokesperson Walter Derieuw, the crews acted swiftly to contain the blaze and prevent it from causing further damage. This incident underscores the critical importance of rapid fire responses in industrial zones, where the presence of hazardous materials, like ammonia, can pose significant risks to safety and property.
Cause of the Fire
The fire erupted in a section of the factory where various industrial products, including ammonia, were stored. Due to the presence of these dangerous materials, the fire department quickly requested additional reinforcements to ensure the fire didn’t spread to the main part of the building. Thankfully, all employees were evacuated safely with no injuries reported.
A medical emergency plan was activated as a precautionary measure, with the Red Cross stepping in to provide additional support for the emergency teams on the ground.
Once the fire was contained, firefighters worked to ventilate the facility, clearing the smoke and checking for elevated levels of carbon monoxide. They conducted thorough safety assessments before allowing anyone to re-enter the premises. While the fire was brought under control quickly, the investigation into its cause is ongoing, with authorities focusing on the potential risks posed by the chemicals stored on-site.
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