Two people died and eight people were seriously injured in the incident, resulting in the cessation of all gas supply from the Longford facilities.
Many local CFA crews were the first to attend to the resultant fire from the explosion, working alongside Esso employees to execute emergency procedures.
Local tankers and pumpers from Sale, Loch Sport, Seaspray, Longford, Traralgon, Morwell and Maryvale were supported by aircraft as well as resources from Dandenong, Frankston, Boronia, Chelsea, Ferntree Gully, Scoresby and Noble Park for multiple days.
The resumption of gas supply commenced on 4 October and was completed 10 days later, during which time a Royal Commission had been announced to inquire into the fire and explosion at the Longford Plant.
CFA has a range of support services and resources available to help staff and volunteers manage their mental health and deal with difficulties when they arise, including:
Peer Support Program - trained members offering support and guidance - contact your local peer coordinator
Member Assistance Program - 24-hour phone service where you talk to trained psychologists to help you through work and personal issues
Chaplaincy Program - offering 24-hour pastoral care
There is now only one number to call to access these services - 1800 959 232. The services are confidential, free of charge and available to all CFA members and their immediate families.