At least 28,500 chickens died this afternoon in a fire in a chicken coop near Assen. This was reported by a spokesperson for the Drenthe Security Region (VRD). Firefighters prevented the fire from spreading to another shed, containing around 15,000 chickens. These animals are still alive.
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The barns are located on Graswijk, on the south side of Assen. The fire, which broke out around 4:30 pm, released a lot of smoke. The firefighters have now brought the situation under control and then issued the ‘fire master’ signal. However, it takes some time to put out the fire and smoke continues to be released.
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Plumes of dark smoke were clearly visible in the area this afternoon, even from the A28 where the fire is raging. Emergency services have increased to “major fire”, alarming many firefighters.
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The area around the barn has been closed to traffic, including the A28 exit at Assen-Zuid. The Oude Haarweg of Assen, which leads to Graswijk, is also closed.
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VRD recommends keeping windows and doors closed and turning off ventilation. “Don’t go to the area, give space to the emergency services”. It is not clear how the fire started.
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See pictures of the fire in the chicken coop here:
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