CFA crews assisted MFB with a fire that destroyed a chemical factory in Campbellfield on Camp Rd overnight.
CFA sent four crews from Criagieburn, Greenvale, Epping and Eltham to assist in the blaze, working alongside 10 MFB trucks.
A Watch and Act message was issued around 8.40pm, due to heavy smoke in the area. This was downgraded to an Advice message at 8.15am this morning.
CFA Commander Paul Elso said crews worked in difficult conditions with structural collapses, heavy smoke and exploding drums of chemicals while getting the fire under control.
“It was a pretty spectacular fire, with 44-gallon drums full of chemicals exploding into the air, parts of the building collapsing and heavy smoke all around us,” Mr Elso said.
“Our crews worked in water relays to extinguish the fire and had two ground monitors in breathing apparatus working on sections.
“Due to the chemicals involved, EPA and Melbourne Water attended to monitor air and water quality. While there was some water run-off from the fire fight, this was contained to a drainage area on the property with no risk to communities.”
MFB fire investigators remain on scene to determine the cause.
Author: CFA Media