Image: Geelong West Fire Brigade
It was perfect timing for Geelong West firefighters last week when they happened upon a fire in Herne Hill.
Returning from a false alarm in Geelong West, crews on the brigade’s pumper noticed puffs of smoke from a shopping strip.
Firefighters noticed the smoke was rapidly building, and found the rear of a shop alight.
Geelong West Firefighter Harry Williams was Incident Controller, and said while the fire provided some challenges, crews worked quickly and effectively.
“We faced challenges gaining access to the rear of the shop, and there was also the presence of asbestos which added some complications,” Harry said.
“The quick work of our crew in breathing apparatus saw the fire brought under control quickly.”
Further crews from Geelong West Fire Brigade and Fire Rescue Victoria were also on scene.
Harry noted that the convenient timing of the crews driving by likely led to much less damage for the shops.
“If it weren’t for us driving past, by the time the fire would’ve been found and called in, the damage would’ve been a lot worse and would have likely spread to multiple shops on the strip,” Harry said.
“Good timing and great work by all crews on scene, it was a fantastic save.”
Image: Geelong West Fire Brigade-
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