Firefighters are working to extinguish a scrap metal fire in Klerksoord, north of Pretoria, after a blaze broke out in the early hours of Sunday, (August 23), reports Pretoria Rekord.

Tshwane Emergency Services spokesperson Nana Radebe-Kgiba said the department received a call through its Emergency Control Centre about the fire shortly after 03:00.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a large quantity of scrap material and debris engulfed in flames. The site also contained gas cylinders and other hazardous materials, some of which exploded during the fire, creating additional risks for crew members.

Radebe-Kgiba said the large amount of debris at the site made firefighting operations challenging.

“Firefighters have to work their way through and move through the debris to gain access to the fire and ensure that all burning material is properly extinguished,” she said.

She noted that the firefighting operation requires careful and thorough work to prevent the fire from spreading or reigniting.

Three fire engines from the Rosslyn and Wonderboom fire stations are currently at the scene.

Radebe-Kgiba said the situation is currently under control, but firefighters remain on scene to ensure the fire is fully extinguished and the area is safe.

Members of the public have been urged to stay away from the incident area and allow emergency personnel to carry out their operations safely.

Motorists and residents in the vicinity have also been advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel near the affected area.

The cause of the fire has not yet been established and will be investigated once the scene has been declared safe.

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