WILLEMSTAD – A fire has broken out again at the scrapyard along Heintje Kool in Curaçao, prompting authorities to warn residents in several surrounding neighborhoods to keep their windows and doors closed because of heavy smoke. The renewed fire, reported Tuesday evening, October 27, has also raised concerns about the safety of students and school personnel, with school administrators being given the authority to decide whether classes should continue.
The Curaçao Fire Department confirmed at approximately 9:00 p.m. Tuesday that firefighting units were at the location battling the flames, which had flared up again at the scrapyard.
The fire brigade fighting the fire at the scrapyard again last night.
The incident has prompted precautionary measures across several residential areas, where smoke from the burning materials could spread depending on wind conditions.
Authorities identified Buena Vista, Sans Souci, Torenquest, Veeris, Seru Fransia, Wishi, Marchena, Piscadera and Jandorèt as neighborhoods that could be affected.
Residents in areas experiencing smoke accumulation are strongly advised to close their windows and doors and keep pets indoors to reduce exposure.
Anyone experiencing breathing difficulties, shortness of breath or other respiratory problems is urged to seek immediate medical attention.
Authorities have also appealed to residents to remain calm and rely exclusively on official information regarding the fire and its possible consequences.
The renewed blaze has raised concerns about air quality, particularly in residential communities located near the scrapyard. Smoke from fires involving discarded materials can pose health risks, although the specific substances released by this fire have not been established.
Schools Given Authority to Decide Whether Classes Continue
The Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports (OWCS) has announced that school directors may independently determine whether classes should proceed at their respective locations.
The ministry emphasized that the health and safety of students, teachers and other school personnel must remain the highest priority.
School administrators are expected to assess the situation based on developments surrounding the fire, conditions at their individual schools and recommendations issued by the Curaçao Fire Department.
This means that schools in areas affected by smoke may make different decisions depending on their proximity to the fire and the conditions they are experiencing.
The ministry has instructed school directors to monitor the situation closely and follow the advice of emergency services.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to pay attention to communications from their children's schools regarding any changes to normal school operations.
Curaçao Chronicle Reported Fire as Breaking News
Curaçao Chronicle alerted its readers to the renewed scrapyard fire through breaking news announcements on its official Facebook page and WhatsApp Channel, providing an early warning about the incident.
As the situation develops, Curaçao Chronicle will continue following information from the Fire Department, government authorities and other official sources, including possible consequences for nearby communities and schools.
Readers who want to receive breaking news and important developments as quickly as possible are encouraged to follow Curaçao Chronicle on Facebook and subscribe to its WhatsApp Channel.
Both platforms are used to share urgent news alerts, public safety announcements and other important developments affecting Curaçao, complementing the newspaper's regular coverage on its website.
The latest fire once again places attention on the scrapyard at Heintje Kool and the potential impact of recurring fires on surrounding residential communities.
Authorities have not yet provided information about the cause of the renewed fire, the extent of the damage or when the situation is expected to be fully under control.
Residents are advised to continue following official safety instructions while firefighters work to contain the blaze.