The Ethekwini Fire Department were on the scene of the massive chemical explosion in Pinetown, Durban; this short film honours their actions.
Durban, South Africa (10 December 2020) – A massive fire broke out at the Zeta Labs in Otto Volek Road just after 11:30 am on Tuesday this week. 30 firefighters arrived on the scene from the Ethekwini Fire Department to fight the blaze. The fire was a chemical one which meant they needed to use both foam and lots of water.
The 30 firefighters were able to get the blaze in the building under control despite not being able to access water from some of the nearby fire hydrants. The blaze on the outside of the building was far more insidious; it was being spurred on by exploding gas cylinders and a 10-ton tanker of sanitiser which was made up of 70% alcohol.
By 3:30 pm, the firefighters were still trying to put out a blaze that had reached a tanker filled with petroleum jelly.
The windy day fanned the fire over towards the neighbouring factories, but thankfully the firefighters were able to put that fire out within minutes. In the end, thirteen people were injured in the blaze, two of which were critical cases.
Despite all the hard work, these men and women put out some terrifying fires and are the unsung heroes of this week for sure!
Anthony George Kirkwood was on the scene and filmed the firefighters in action. He put together a short film honouring the unsung heroes for all their efforts. Watching the firefighters in action has given us chills.
Take a look at the incredible short film below.
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