Fire breaks out at manufacturing facility in Amanzimtoti, Durban
A fire broke out at a pro manufacturing facility in Amanzimtoti on Wednesday, 28 October 2020. The fire seems to have started during the demolishing of the structures when the new company took over the facility. Sibusiso Mkhulisi, regional commander at eThekwini Fire and Emergency Services, said, “eThekwini Fire and Rescue responded to the fire incident at the AECI industrial complex at 13h54. Due to our Amanzimtoti Fire Station proximity to the complex, we were alerted by black smoke ensuing from the complex. This, together with numerous calls we received thereafter, activated our response to the incident. Our response included seven personnel with a rescue pump, foam tender and water carrier from Amanzimtoti Fire Station, five personnel with a rescue pump from Prospecton Fire Station, a water carrier with a driver/operator from Umlazi Fire Station, a foam tender and foam carrier with two drivers/operators from Jacobs Fire Station and a division commander with two drivers/operators with a command vehicle, aerial appliance and water carrier from Central Fire Station. On arrival, we established that it was an empty tank alight, which was located within a multi-storey structure. The fire was intense emitting thick black smoke, creating considerable air pollution challenge. Our further investigation also established that the tank was lined up (inner surface of the tank) with rubber. The cause of the fire was an open flame from a cutting torch. The brigade used foam and water to extinguish the fire. There were no casualties reported.”
Mkhulisi added, “Water supply on site was a problem given that most part of the site was being demolished and the water supply was cut. However, this was mitigated by responding fire officer calling for more fire water carriers.”
Source: Sibusiso Mkhulisi, regional commander, eThekwini Fire and Emergency Services