On Sunday morning, April 20, 2025, a serious fire broke out at the PCC Rokita chemical plant in Brzeg Dolny, located in Poland's Lower Silesia region. The blaze erupted just before 8:00 AM, quickly engulfing a portable tent filled with 1000-liter plastic tanks containing organic semi-finished products. Thick clouds of black smoke were visible from kilometers away, raising immediate concerns among local residents and prompting a swift response from emergency services.
Numerous units from both the State and Volunteer Fire Brigade were dispatched to the scene, with a total of 15 fire brigades participating in the firefighting effort. Specialized chemical rescue teams and an Air Rescue helicopter from Wrocław also arrived to assist. The situation escalated quickly, as the flames threatened to spread further, but thanks to the rapid response, firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within a few hours.
While the fire was ultimately extinguished, it caused significant damage, destroying approximately 50 containers before additional ones could be protected. Fortunately, the quick actions of the firefighters prevented further escalation of the incident. However, two firefighters from the PCC Rokita's factory rescue service sustained minor injuries, suffering superficial burns to their hands and feet. They received immediate medical attention on site, and although a helicopter was summoned for potential transport, their condition did not necessitate hospital transfer.
St. Capt. Daniel Lisiecki, a press officer for the Wołów Fire Department, provided updates on the incident, noting that the fire originated in a storage area where chemical tanks were kept. He confirmed that the response teams included a specialized chemical-ecological group from Wrocław, which conducted air quality measurements to assess any potential contamination resulting from the fire.
Authorities have emphasized the importance of safety in the area. Police secured the perimeter around the plant, closing nearby roads and redirecting traffic to mitigate risks for passing motorists. Residents were advised to keep windows closed and remain vigilant as emergency services continued their operations.
The PCC Rokita plant is a significant player in the chemical industry, being one of the largest manufacturers in Poland and Europe. Established over 75 years ago, the facility specializes in producing a wide range of chemicals, including chloroalkali, polyols, and phosphorous derivatives. The plant spans an area of 260 hectares and boasts 45 kilometers of railway tracks, underscoring its extensive operations.
Historically, the site has its roots in the early 20th century when it was first established by the German company IG Farbenindustrie. After World War II, it was renamed ROKITA and has since evolved into a critical supplier for various sectors, including plastics, cosmetics, construction, and industrial chemicals.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, local officials are working closely with the chemical rescue teams to ensure that any residual hazards are addressed promptly. The situation remains dynamic, and further updates are expected as authorities gather more information.
Residents and local businesses are reminded to stay informed through official channels and to avoid the affected areas until the situation is fully resolved. The PCC Rokita incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with chemical manufacturing and the importance of robust safety measures in such facilities.
In summary, while the fire at the PCC Rokita plant has been contained, the incident highlights the critical role of emergency services in managing industrial incidents and protecting community safety. The efforts of the firefighters and rescue teams have been commendable, and their quick action likely prevented further injuries and damage.
