Late on Saturday night, a fire erupted at a Margarine factory in Limerick, Ireland, causing considerable alarm among residents. The incident unfolded at the prominent establishment, McDonnell & Sons, Ltd., situated on Thomas Street, posing a significant threat to the premises housing vital gear mills and a burgeoning margarine manufacturing facility.
Emergency services, including the local fire brigade and Military Brigade, swiftly responded to the scene. The intensity of the flames raised concerns about the safety of the entire compound, encompassing crucial production facilities.
Firefighters battled the blaze for hours, employing extensive efforts to contain and eventually extinguish the fire. Despite the challenges, the combined forces of the corporation and the military proved effective in preventing the flames from spreading to other sections of the factory.
The ordeal, lasting several hours, resulted in substantial damage to the machinery and infrastructure of the Limerick-based margarine production facility. Preliminary estimates indicate losses amounting to thousands of pounds, but the company’s insurance coverage with the Hibernian Fire and General Insurance Ltd., headquartered at 4 Dame Street, Dublin, is expected to facilitate a prompt and comprehensive settlement.
Officials from the fire department stated that the quick response from the emergency services played a crucial role in mitigating the potential devastation. The thorough efforts of the firefighters eventually brought the situation under control, averting a more catastrophic outcome.
While some machinery and structures incurred irreparable damage, there were no reported injuries or casualties among the employees or emergency responders. The incident highlights the significance of well-coordinated emergency response measures in safeguarding both lives and property.
McDonnell & Sons, Ltd., expressed gratitude for the rapid intervention of the local fire brigade and the Military Brigade, acknowledging their pivotal role in minimizing the impact of the fire. The company is now focused on the process of assessing the extent of the damage and initiating the necessary steps to resume operations.
As investigations into the cause of the fire are underway, the community awaits updates on the future of the Limerick margarine factory. Authorities urge businesses to review and enhance their fire safety protocols to prevent similar incidents and ensure the well-being of employees and the community at large.
The forthcoming days will be critical for the Limerick-based company as it navigates the aftermath of the blaze, working towards recovery and restoring normalcy to its operations.
Irish Independent – Monday 09 September 1912
