A significant fire engulfed the DBW warehouse facility located in Górzykowo, near Zielona Góra, Poland, on Saturday, leading to extensive firefighting operations and one reported injury. The incident, initially reported around 12:47 PM, quickly escalated, prompting the involvement of 15 fire crews shortly after the alarm was raised.
The blaze, characterized by State Fire Service spokesperson st. kpt. Piotr Kowalski as "ciężki pożar" (a heavy fire), broke out primarily within the production area, which produces various components, including fiberglass, metals, and steel wool used mainly in the automotive industry. Witnesses described hearing explosions from within the building as flames erupted, with the fire spreading rapidly and lapping onto the roof of the facility.
The firefighters faced substantial challenges due to the presence of heating oil on site. Young brigade leader Arkadiusz Kaniak stated, "Pali się olej, jednak to mamy już pod kontrolą" (The oil is on fire, but we have it under control), indicating their focus on containing the fire and preventing it from advancing to other parts of the building. This oil was likely the blaze’s ignition source, as it was housed within the facility's heating system.
At the time of the fire's escalation, it became apparent just how grave the situation was. Seven employees were successfully evacuated, but unfortunately, one individual sustained injuries during the incident, necessitating medical assistance. Emergency calls drawing attention to the need for calm and safety urged nearby residents to close windows and doors to minimize exposure to the thick black smoke billowing from the warehouse.
By 3 PM, the effort to control the blaze swelled to over 21 fire units with specialized equipment working tirelessly under grueling conditions marked by high temperatures and significant smoke. The Mayor of Zielona Góra, Maciej Pabierowski, reassured the public via social media, stating, "W związku z akcją gaśniczą pożaru hali produkcyjnej w Górzykowie... nie ma zagrożenia dla Zielonej Góry" (Regarding the firefighting actions at the production hall fire in Górzykowo... there is no threat to Zielona Góra), confirming the situation was under control and not posing any risk to the surrounding community.
Although the immediate danger has been managed, the local fire department remains on high alert, focusing efforts on preventing the flames from spreading to adjacent structures. Fire crews worked to secure the oil containers and mitigate any potential hazards from the burning oil.
DBW Polska, which has operated for over 30 years, plays a significant role in the region's industrial sector, providing high-quality products necessary not only for the automotive industry but also applications resistant to high temperatures and corrosion. The aftermath of such incidents, especially one causing apparent injuries and significant infrastructural damage, may invoke economic repercussions for DBW and the local economy.
Following this event, community efforts are beginning to formulate. Various fundraising initiatives have emerged online for those affected by the fire, aiming to support the production and rebuilding efforts to restore operations swiftly.
Authorities continue to monitor the site, with firefighting operations expected to transition to the smoldering phase. Firefighters have shown commendable perseverance, asserting the importance of both protecting lives and safeguarding the infrastructure. The resilience demonstrated by the involved parties signals hope for recovery and rebuilding efforts following this unfortunate disaster.