WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao Fire Department has informed the community that, after an intensive operation lasting more than 24 hours, the large fire that broke out at a business property on Kaya Telekomunikashon is now under control.
The fire was concentrated in several containers holding various chemical products.
The first emergency report was received on Tuesday, May 12, at approximately 4:18 p.m. From that moment until Wednesday evening, firefighting teams worked continuously to contain and fully extinguish the blaze.
During the operation, firefighters used several methods to combat the fire. Initially, the fire was attacked with water. Heavy equipment was then used to separate burning containers from the others in order to prevent the fire from spreading further. Afterward, soil and eventually sand were used to completely smother the remaining fire concentrated in several containers and eliminate the final hotspots.
Although the fire has now been extinguished, authorities warned that smoke nuisance may still occur at certain moments, especially when wind conditions increase. For that reason, the fire department continues advising nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed if they experience smoke or strong odors.
Multiple Agencies Involved
During the emergency response, several government agencies worked closely together to guarantee public safety.
The fire department maintained continuous coordination with the Korps Politie Curaçao and experts from the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature regarding potentially toxic gases released during the fire.
Police, the Ministry of Social Development, Labor and Welfare (SOAW), and victim support services also assisted during the operation, particularly with the evacuation of residents from the affected area to prevent exposure to potentially dangerous smoke.
Environmental and Criminal Investigations to Continue
Authorities confirmed that the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature will continue investigating the gases released into the environment in the coming days to evaluate possible risks to public health and the environment.
In addition, Curaçao police — through its tactical investigation division — will launch a full investigation into the exact cause of the fire and where it may have originated.
The Curaçao Fire Department thanked all emergency services, volunteers, and community members for their patience and cooperation throughout the incident.
“The safety of the community remains and will always remain the highest priority,” the statement concluded.
