A major fire at a clothes recycling plant in Newry, Northern Ireland, was described as “one of the biggest incidents we have attended in many years” by Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue chiefs.
As many as 23 appliances and 115 firefighters attended the scene to bring a fire in a 100m long warehouse under control, after being called at 11.00pm on Thursday 26 July.
Fire crews were able to prevent the blaze spreading to a building materials business, but the clothing warehouse was severely affected.
Crews had to pump water across many miles in order to keep the crews supplied with water. Specialist vehicles including high reach aerial appliances, water tankers and high volume pumping units were deployed and the fire was brought under control on Friday morning just before 6am.
The incident was declared a ‘major incident’ and as such interim chief fire officer Chris Kerr took command of the incident.
He said: “This is one of the biggest incidents we have attended in many years and I am confident that the courage and professionalism of our fire crews prevented the incident from escalating further.
“Our fire crews have worked in difficult and punishing conditions to prevent the fire spreading and while there is significant damage to property we have managed to save at least 50% of this major commercial enterprise. I would commend all those who were involved in this major incident including those members of the local community who have assisted us.
“We have implemented our contingency plans to ensure emergency cover is provided across Northern Ireland while we deal with what will be a protracted incident.”
Police have said the incident is being treated as suspicious.
