Burning misfortune: fir tree fire in Essen-Stoppenberg

fire risk through improper use of gas burners

The incident in Essen-Stoppenberg on April 19, 2024 impressively shows how dangerous the use of gas burners can be, especially in dry weather conditions. The fire brigade moved out at around 3:40 p.m. after residents of an apartment building had raised the alarm. Several fir trees had caught fire, which led to a dangerous fire.

The decisive measures of the fire brigade

Although the residents made the first attempts to solve with the help of a garden hose, the problem was far from solved. The fire brigade's incoming forces discovered that the fire had already spread to the attic. By heating a gas burner that was used in the weed remover, the fire had reached the roof skin and had ignited the insulation material there.

cause and effects of the incident

The head of the operations decided to request additional help, and several teams under respiratory protection were sent to combat the fire in the roof structure. At the same time, a turntable ladder was used to gain access to the fire site from outside. After an intensive 30-minute extinguishing campaign, the emergency services were successful and were able to deglaze all embers. The smoky area was then extracted with the help of high -performance fans.

critical situation for affected residents

Despite the effective intervention of the fire brigade, two apartments are temporarily uninhabitable due to the damage caused. This presents residents with new challenges because they have to temporarily organize accommodation and move. The Essen police have already investigated the cause of the fire in order to avoid similar events in the future.

teaching for the community and future security measures

This incident is an important indication of the caution that is required when dealing with fire, especially in the spring months when the temperatures rise and the risk of flame grows. The community should become aware of this dangers and take suitable security measures to prevent such dangerous situations. The use of gas burners, especially near combustible materials, should be carefully considered and, if possible, replaced by safer methods.