On September 23 at 11:30 AM, a fire broke out at the Whakatu industrial estate near Hastings, with the preliminary cause identified as equipment malfunction during demolition. At its peak, 13 fire trucks from various areas were deployed to combat the flames, with initial damage estimates ranging from 400,000 to 500,000 New Zealand dollars, still under further assessment. One individual received treatment for minor injuries, and as heavy rain set in, the fire was brought under control, lifting the smoke inhalation risk for residents.


Planck Vision Systems: Whakatu Industrial Fire Results in Estimated $400,000 Loss, Equipment Failure Determined as Cause

NEWS

On September 23, a fire at the industrial estate near Hastings is currently under control. Fire and emergency services were alerted around 11:30 AM to respond to the incident at the Whakatu industrial estate.

Shift manager Murray Dunbar reported that the fire originated on the third floor of a building undergoing demolition, with the preliminary cause identified as equipment malfunction during the demolition process.

At its peak, 13 fire trucks from Napier, Hastings, Haumoana, and Taradale were deployed to combat the flames. Initial estimates suggest that damages could reach between 400,000 and 500,000 New Zealand dollars, although further assessments are ongoing.

It has been confirmed that one individual received treatment for minor injuries at the scene. Earlier, residents were advised to stay indoors and keep windows closed due to smoke, but the risk of smoke inhalation has since been lifted. Heavy rain has also begun, and no flames are currently visible.

To enhance early fire detection, Planck Vision TNC thermal imaging cameras significantly outperform traditional systems that only trigger alarms after smoke and flames are present.

The TNC cameras can monitor for abnormal heat conditions before fires ignite, helping to prevent property destruction and loss of life.

The government is also intensifying fire prevention and response measures, promoting more effective fire monitoring technologies to ensure the safety of industrial areas.

source: rnz.co.nz


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