A large fire erupted late Wednesday night at the Prinses Margrietkazerne military base located on Kolonel D.J. Teesweg in Wezep, prompting significant emergency response due to concerns over smoke inhalation and possible asbestos exposure.
The fire broke out just before midnight and quickly escalated, requiring fire brigades from surrounding areas, including Zwolle, Kampen, Zwartewaterland, and Hattem, to assist. The initial size of the fire was reported to be substantial, engulfing a warehouse measuring approximately 40 by 50 meters. By around 1:15 AM, the fire was fully ablaze, compelling authorities to call for additional help as the situation intensified.
According to the Northern and Eastern Gelderland Safety Region (VNOG), the flames were massive, leading to the issuance of emergency protocols. Around 9 individuals suffered smoke inhalation and were treated by ambulance personnel on-site. It was emphasized by VNOG personnel, "Stay out of the smoke as it is always harmful. Close the windows and switch off ventilation if you experience smoke distress." This advisory underscored the smoke's potential toxicity and the need for residents to protect themselves.
By approximately 3:45 AM, the firefighting teams had managed to bring the conflagration under control, thanks to the collective effort of numerous emergency response units, comprising eight fire trucks and high aerial devices. The timely intervention also included establishing measures to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby structures. Fortunately, firefighters were able to save adjacent buildings from the flames, minimizing additional property damage.
Extensive smoke emanated from the warehouse, raising alarms over potential asbestos release. VNOG confirmed they dispatched air quality monitoring teams to the scene to handle the risk efficiently. A spokesperson for the safety region reported, "Thanks to the significant effort, the fire has been brought under control," reassuring the public of their resolute action under pressure.
Due to the substantial smoke, train services between Zwolle and Amersfoort were temporarily halted, compounding the incident's impact on public transportation and safety. Emphasizing community awareness, officials advised local residents to remain indoors and limit exposure to smoke.
The cause of the fire remains unknown and is currently under investigation. Authorities are analyzing various factors surrounding the fire, including the contents of the warehouse at the time of the blaze and the structural circumstances of the site. Fortunately, they have preliminarily suggested no harmful substances, particularly asbestos, escaped the base area.
Renewed focus will be placed on the safety of personnel working within the defense facility, ensuring the venue complies with environmental safety standards moving forward. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the hazards associated with large-scale fires and the necessity for rapid response mechanisms to protect both people and property.
With the fires officially under control, authorities will continue monitoring the situation and conduct thorough assessments to guarantee community safety from potential hazards arising from the incident. VNOG has indicated their commitment to evaluating and improving operational responses for future similar events.
