Firefighters still mobilized, to prevent any resumption of fire, and residents of Aubervilliers (Seine-Saint-Denis) somewhat fascinated by the impressive charred carcass. "It's impressive to see that there are still firefighters on site! Because it started yesterday afternoon (Tuesday) anyway, "says Abou, a father positioned above the double textile warehouse of 3,000 m².
The site, which corresponds to the headquarters and main warehouse of Rafco Valège — a brand of underwear and lingerie — was partially destroyed by a major fire Tuesday noon, near the Aimé-Césaire metro station.
A plume visible for miles around
As they left the station on Wednesday, many passers-by paused to photograph or film the scene, while firefighters were still working to water the site. The day before, a plume of black smoke was visible for miles around. The fire was completely brought under control by firefighters around 18 p.m.
Aubervilliers (Seine-Saint-Denis), May 31, 2023. This Wednesday morning, firefighters continued to water the charred site.
Enough to worry local residents about the nature of the products emerging from the burning warehouse. An employee close to the site was concerned about the potential presence of asbestos in the roof of the building. Shortly after 16 p.m. on Wednesday, the prefecture of Seine-Saint-Denis said it was able to confirm "the absence of toxicity" of these fumes, relying on the expertise of the Paris fire brigade (BSPP) and the central laboratory of the prefecture of police (LCPP).
👉 #Incendie @PompiersParis confirms the absence of toxicity of the fumes from the warehouse fire that occurred yesterday in #Aubervilliers
👉 fire extinguished with maintenance of on-site surveillance to avoid any resumption
👏 Thanks to our👨 🚒 & 👮 ♂️ for their commitment and responsiveness pic.twitter.com/ktHkKFBMYw
— Prefect of Seine-Saint-Denis (@Prefet93) May 31, 2023
As of Tuesday afternoon, the mayor (UDI) of Aubervilliers, Karine Franclet, assured that the plume did not present a danger. The warehouse contained "no hydrocarbons or chemicals," she said.
When contacted, the BSPP referred us to the police headquarters. The latter had not yet answered our questions on Wednesday evening.
