Major fire in La Herradura causes panic near LPG bottling plant
A voracious fire was recorded last Friday night in the La Herradura sector, in Santiago, affecting a lot located on Antonio Guzmán Avenue where large quantities of plastic materials and polyethylene pipes were stored. The blaze, which began after 8:00 p.m., mobilized various relief agencies due to the proximity of the fire to a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) bottling plant.
The dense column of smoke and the magnitude of the flames caused residents in the surrounding areas to leave their homes as a precaution. Fear gripped the community due to the latent risk posed by the proximity of the gas bottling plant, which forced an immediate response from the authorities.
Effective action by firefighters prevents a major tragedy
Colonel Alexis Moscat, chief of the Santiago Fire Department, reported that the presence of highly flammable materials at the site complicated initial extinguishing efforts. However, thanks to the deployment of about 20 personnel and the support of units from Hato del Yaque and La Canela, it was possible to contain the fire within the affected lot.
The absolute priority of our units was to prevent the flames from spreading to the LPG bottling plant and nearby commercial establishments. We managed to establish a control perimeter that was key to avoiding major damage to private property and ensuring the safety of the area.
Santiago Fire Department
No casualties to report
- Personnel deployed: Nearly 20 firefighters worked in the area.
- Equipment used: Two pumper trucks and one fire engine.
- Material damage: Total loss of stored plastics and polyethylene pipes.
- Injuries: No injuries or people affected by the smoke were reported.
Although the operation was successful and a catastrophe was avoided, the authorities have launched an exhaustive investigation to clarify the origin of the incident. So far, the causes that led the flames to consume the materials on said land remain under analysis, while the La Herradura community regains its calm after the scare experienced.
