News / National
Fire destroys property at RMS warehouse in Bulawayo
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A devastating fire at the Road Motor Services (RMS) warehouse in Bulawayo destroyed property valued at approximately ZWG2 million yesterday morning. The blaze, which broke out at around 7:37 am, was swiftly contained thanks to the prompt response from Bulawayo's Fire Brigade, preventing the fire from spreading to neighboring businesses.
The warehouse, located along 13th Avenue Extension opposite the Veterinary Services Department, was engulfed in flames by the time firefighters arrived on the scene. The 150m x 30m corrugated iron structure, used for carpentry and metal fabrication by informal traders, was home to various goods including chipboards.
Bulawayo's Chief Fire Officer, Mr. Mhlangano Moyo, said the fire consumed a wide range of materials, causing losses estimated at ZWG1.9 million. Firefighters had to access the premises through the roof using ladders, as the warehouse was secured. A total of four fire engines, along with four jets, a hose reel, and a breathing apparatus, were deployed to control the flames.
"Fortunately, no injuries or casualties were reported," Mr. Moyo said. "The timely reporting of the fire played a crucial role in the quick response, allowing us to save valuable state-of-the-art machinery in the warehouse."
A witness at the scene, who chose to remain anonymous, praised the Fire Brigade's swift action, noting that the fire could have easily spread to nearby businesses, creating a far greater disaster.
"The Fire Brigade acted fast and ensured the fire didn't spread to other business premises. It could have been a much bigger problem, but they did an excellent job," the witness said.
Business owners operating from the warehouse, however, declined to comment on the incident.
The fire serves as a stark reminder of the critical role of fire safety and the importance of having a well-equipped fire brigade to respond to emergencies. The Fire Brigade continues to highlight the need for businesses to maintain safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
The warehouse, located along 13th Avenue Extension opposite the Veterinary Services Department, was engulfed in flames by the time firefighters arrived on the scene. The 150m x 30m corrugated iron structure, used for carpentry and metal fabrication by informal traders, was home to various goods including chipboards.
Bulawayo's Chief Fire Officer, Mr. Mhlangano Moyo, said the fire consumed a wide range of materials, causing losses estimated at ZWG1.9 million. Firefighters had to access the premises through the roof using ladders, as the warehouse was secured. A total of four fire engines, along with four jets, a hose reel, and a breathing apparatus, were deployed to control the flames.
"Fortunately, no injuries or casualties were reported," Mr. Moyo said. "The timely reporting of the fire played a crucial role in the quick response, allowing us to save valuable state-of-the-art machinery in the warehouse."
A witness at the scene, who chose to remain anonymous, praised the Fire Brigade's swift action, noting that the fire could have easily spread to nearby businesses, creating a far greater disaster.
"The Fire Brigade acted fast and ensured the fire didn't spread to other business premises. It could have been a much bigger problem, but they did an excellent job," the witness said.
Business owners operating from the warehouse, however, declined to comment on the incident.
The fire serves as a stark reminder of the critical role of fire safety and the importance of having a well-equipped fire brigade to respond to emergencies. The Fire Brigade continues to highlight the need for businesses to maintain safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
Source - the chronicle
