Menu
13/12/2005
Main fires extinguished at oil depot
The main fires at Buncefield oil depot in Hemel Hempstead have been extinguished, it has been reported.
Many people have also been able to return to homes and businesses near the depot, while schools that had been closed are now likely to re-open tomorrow.
More than 150 firefighters had been tackling the fire, which broke out following a series of explosions at the site around 6am on Sunday morning.
On Monday afternoon, fire crews were forced to suspend their efforts to control the fire, following fears that another fuel tank could explode.
However, prior to the withdrawal, firefighters had managed to extinguish the fires in 12 of the tanks, by smothering the fire with 32,000 litres of water per minute mixed with foam.
The fire is believed to have been the largest of its kind seen in the UK and Europe in peacetime.
Forty-three people have been injured as a result of the explosions and fire. Two people were seriously injured, and one remains in intensive care suffering from respiratory problems, but is reported to be in a stable condition.
The Buncefield depot, which is operated by Total and part owned by Texaco, is the country’s fifth largest fuel distribution depot. It stores oil, petrol and kerosene and supplies airports across the region, including Heathrow and Luton. BP, Shell and British pipeline also use the depot.
Downing Street has acknowledged that the blasts could cause “short-term local difficulties” with fuel supplies, but urged drivers not to panic-buy.
Total has set up a helpline to help those people whose property was damaged in the blast. The number is: 0870 400 0499.
Police have also established a hotline for residents and businesses affected by the blasts. The number is: 0800 0960095.
(KMcA/SP)
Many people have also been able to return to homes and businesses near the depot, while schools that had been closed are now likely to re-open tomorrow.
More than 150 firefighters had been tackling the fire, which broke out following a series of explosions at the site around 6am on Sunday morning.
On Monday afternoon, fire crews were forced to suspend their efforts to control the fire, following fears that another fuel tank could explode.
However, prior to the withdrawal, firefighters had managed to extinguish the fires in 12 of the tanks, by smothering the fire with 32,000 litres of water per minute mixed with foam.
The fire is believed to have been the largest of its kind seen in the UK and Europe in peacetime.
Forty-three people have been injured as a result of the explosions and fire. Two people were seriously injured, and one remains in intensive care suffering from respiratory problems, but is reported to be in a stable condition.
The Buncefield depot, which is operated by Total and part owned by Texaco, is the country’s fifth largest fuel distribution depot. It stores oil, petrol and kerosene and supplies airports across the region, including Heathrow and Luton. BP, Shell and British pipeline also use the depot.
Downing Street has acknowledged that the blasts could cause “short-term local difficulties” with fuel supplies, but urged drivers not to panic-buy.
Total has set up a helpline to help those people whose property was damaged in the blast. The number is: 0870 400 0499.
Police have also established a hotline for residents and businesses affected by the blasts. The number is: 0800 0960095.
(KMcA/SP)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
23 April 2015
Overnight Mountain Fire Deliberate - SWFS
Fire crews in South Wales worked through the night tackling a large wild fire in Caerphilly county. More than 700 acres of mountain in Wattsville, near Crosskeys, were affected by a fire, which the fire service believe was started deliberately. Twelve fire engines were on the scene, which sits above the Tata Steel Plant.
Overnight Mountain Fire Deliberate - SWFS
Fire crews in South Wales worked through the night tackling a large wild fire in Caerphilly county. More than 700 acres of mountain in Wattsville, near Crosskeys, were affected by a fire, which the fire service believe was started deliberately. Twelve fire engines were on the scene, which sits above the Tata Steel Plant.
20 April 2015
Firefighters Tackle Overnight Church Blaze
Firefighters in Glasgow have fought a blaze at a church in the city over night. Emergency services where alerted to the fire on Crossloan Road, Govan at about 22:30 on Sunday. Residents in a neighbouring four-storey tenement had to be evacuated during the incident, with a number of them put up in emergency accommodation.
Firefighters Tackle Overnight Church Blaze
Firefighters in Glasgow have fought a blaze at a church in the city over night. Emergency services where alerted to the fire on Crossloan Road, Govan at about 22:30 on Sunday. Residents in a neighbouring four-storey tenement had to be evacuated during the incident, with a number of them put up in emergency accommodation.
23 February 2006
£2m reward offered for £50m robbery gang
Police are hunting an armed gang that made off with around £50 million from a Kent security depot on Wednesday morning. The gang, described as "dangerous" by police, held the depot manager and his family hostage for more than six hours while the raid was being carried out.
£2m reward offered for £50m robbery gang
Police are hunting an armed gang that made off with around £50 million from a Kent security depot on Wednesday morning. The gang, described as "dangerous" by police, held the depot manager and his family hostage for more than six hours while the raid was being carried out.
05 August 2003
Fire brigade with more than 1 million fires in a year: Prescott
Latest national fire statistics covering the 12 months to September 2002 were issued today by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. First estimates show that the UK fire and rescue service attended just over 1 million fires and false fire alarms during the 12 months to September 2002 - 2% more than the previous 12-month period.
Fire brigade with more than 1 million fires in a year: Prescott
Latest national fire statistics covering the 12 months to September 2002 were issued today by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. First estimates show that the UK fire and rescue service attended just over 1 million fires and false fire alarms during the 12 months to September 2002 - 2% more than the previous 12-month period.
19 March 2008
Countdown For Fuel Payments For Pensioners
Over 60s who haven't yet claimed the Winter Fuel Payment have just days to get in touch with The Pension Service to receive help with energy costs. Pensions Minister Mike O'Brien urged older people to get their claim forms in the post before 28 March. The Winter Fuel Payment is £200 for the over 60s rising to £300 for the over 80s.
Countdown For Fuel Payments For Pensioners
Over 60s who haven't yet claimed the Winter Fuel Payment have just days to get in touch with The Pension Service to receive help with energy costs. Pensions Minister Mike O'Brien urged older people to get their claim forms in the post before 28 March. The Winter Fuel Payment is £200 for the over 60s rising to £300 for the over 80s.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
