Firefighters Battle Ongoing Blaze at Berlin Metal Technology Company, Evacuations Ensured

Firefighters are still battling a major fire that erupted in a metal technology company in Berlin-Lichterfelde, with re-extinguishing efforts ongoing one day after the blaze ignited. According to a spokesperson for the fire department, fires have been reigniting in the rubble of the building, necessitating ongoing efforts to fully extinguish them. To better access the sources of the fire, emergency services are now planning to dismantle parts of the building.

Approximately 50 emergency responders remained on duty Saturday morning, with extinguishing operations expected to continue throughout the day. Residents are advised to keep their windows closed as a precaution, as odors may still linger. On Friday, the German Red Cross (DRK) and the German Life Saving Society (DRLG) utilized their technology to measure air pollutants.

Since Friday evening, the Technical Relief Agency has been working to prevent contaminated firefighting water and foam from entering the sewage system or the nearby Teltow Canal. These efforts have been successful, with a disposal company setting up large tanks to collect the contaminated water.

The fire, which engulfed a technical room on the first floor of a factory building, prompted the evacuation of all occupants, ensuring their safety. However, access to the building was restricted during firefighting operations, as a massive smoke cloud billowed over western Berlin.

The affected company, identified as an electroplating company that produces car parts among other products, has been grappling with the aftermath of the blaze.