Firefighters Respond to Blaze in Central de Abasto’s Fruit and Vegetable Sector
Mexico City, September 3 – A fire erupted on Wednesday night, September 2, in the fruit and vegetable sector of the Central de Abasto in Mexico City. The incident, located in aisle WX of the market, prompted an immediate response from emergency personnel, including the Heroic Fire Department of Mexico City and the market’s Civil Protection unit. No injuries were reported, thanks to the rapid intervention of all involved.
The alarm was raised shortly after 7:40 PM, with reports indicating a fire within a warehouse storing cardboard and plastic materials. Chief Vulcano Cova, head of the Heroic Fire Department of Mexico City, confirmed that specialized personnel were dispatched to the scene to extinguish the flames.
Swift Action by Emergency Services Prevents Further Damage
Officials from the Central de Abasto utilized their social media channels to inform the public that the incident was managed by the market’s Civil Protection staff, in close coordination with Mexico City’s fire department, local authorities, and internal security teams. Their timely and coordinated efforts were crucial in controlling the situation effectively.
“Thanks to the rapid intervention of emergency services, the fire was extinguished without any reported injuries,” stated the Central de Abasto’s official communication. This swift response prevented the fire from spreading to other areas of the massive market, which is critical for the city’s food supply.
Details of the Incident and the Central de Abasto
Chief Vulcano Cova further explained that firefighters gained entry into the specific warehouse where the fire originated. The contents of the warehouse, primarily cardboard and plastic, contributed to the rapid spread of the flames initially, but the specialized teams were able to contain it efficiently.
The Central de Abasto of Mexico City is renowned as the largest wholesale market in Latin America and the largest food market globally. It serves as a vital hub, receiving an average of 300,000 visitors daily, with numbers soaring to half a million during peak seasons such as Holy Week, Day of the Dead, and Christmas.
Spanning an impressive 304 hectares of commercial area, the Central de Abasto has deep historical roots tracing back to the pre-Hispanic markets of La Merced. Its construction commenced in March 1981 and it was officially inaugurated on November 22, 1982, by then-President José López Portillo. However, historical accounts suggest it took some time for the market to become fully operational, as detailed in the book ‘Mercados de la Ciudad de México’ (PRI Editorial Affairs Committee, 2019).
The primary objective behind establishing such a colossal market was to forge a direct link between agricultural production and consumer demand, thereby ensuring the food security of Mexico City and its metropolitan area through the collection and commercialization of agricultural products and groceries.
The market is meticulously organized into eight specialized sectors, including flowers and vegetables, groceries and dry goods, an auction and producer zone, empty containers, legumes, a transfer warehouse, and poultry and meats. This structured layout facilitates efficient distribution and management of an immense volume of goods.
Safety Measures and Recommendations During a Fire
In light of such incidents, authorities reiterate crucial safety guidelines for individuals who might find themselves in a fire situation within their homes and unable to evacuate:
- Isolate from the fire: The immediate priority is to distance oneself from the fire as quickly as possible. If the fire originates in the kitchen, for instance, one should seek refuge in another room and ensure the door is closed.
- Seal off air entry points: Once isolated, it is imperative to block all potential air entry points where smoke could penetrate, using wet cloths or rags.
- Call for help: Immediately dial 911 to report the situation and request emergency assistance.
- Protect respiratory system: Cover the nose and mouth with a damp cloth or handkerchief to minimize smoke inhalation.
The swift and effective response to the fire at the Central de Abasto underscores the importance of well-trained emergency services and robust safety protocols in critical infrastructure like this vital market.
Source: https://www.milenio.com/policia/incendio-en-central-de-abastos-de-cdmx
