On April 22, 2025, a significant fire broke out in a pallet factory located in the Güímar Industrial Estate, Tenerife, around 18:57 hours. The blaze quickly spread to an adjacent food products warehouse, prompting emergency services to respond to the scene. Eyewitnesses reported hearing strong explosions within the complex, which heightened concerns among local residents.
The fire was fueled by large stacks of highly flammable wooden pallets, creating a dense cloud of smoke that was visible from the TF-1 highway and throughout the Güímar Valley. The Center for Emergency and Security Coordination (CECOES) confirmed the incident shortly after receiving numerous calls from concerned neighbors.
In response to the escalating situation, the Consortium of Prevention, Extinction of Fires, and Salvage of the Island of Tenerife mobilized five teams of professional firefighters, along with volunteer firefighters and forest brigades (Brifor). Personnel from the Cabildo highways, the Civil Guard, and local police from Candelaria and Güímar were also deployed to assist in controlling the fire and managing the traffic disruptions.
The TF-1 highway was closed in both directions, causing significant traffic delays as emergency crews worked to extinguish the flames. The local police also closed the auxiliary access road to plot 1 of the industrial estate to facilitate the emergency response. By 21:30 hours, the TF-1 was reopened to traffic, although firefighters continued their operations in the area.
As a precautionary measure, two ambulances from the Canary Health Service were dispatched to the scene, and one male individual was transported to the Hospital de La Candelaria due to mild smoke inhalation. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported at the time.
The Candelaria City Council urged residents living nearby to close their doors and windows to mitigate the effects of the smoke and to avoid traveling in the affected area. Authorities emphasized the importance of public cooperation during this emergency, as they continued their efforts to control the fire.
This incident underscores the potential dangers associated with industrial fires, particularly those involving flammable materials. Local authorities are now investigating the cause of the fire and the extent of the damage caused to the facilities involved.
The situation has prompted discussions about fire safety regulations in industrial zones, as well as the need for enhanced emergency preparedness measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. As the investigation unfolds, the local community remains on alert, reflecting on the importance of safety protocols in industrial operations.
Residents are left grappling with the aftermath of the fire, which not only disrupted traffic but also raised concerns about air quality and safety in the region. The local government is expected to provide updates on the investigation and any future safety measures that may be implemented to protect the community.
As the smoke clears, the community of Güímar is reminded of the importance of vigilance and preparedness in the face of potential industrial hazards. The quick response from emergency services was critical in preventing further escalation of the situation, demonstrating the effectiveness of coordinated emergency management in high-stress scenarios.
