Major fire at former shoe museum in Waalwijk, asbestos released
A large fire broke out Monday evening in a vacant warehouse in Waalwijk, which previously housed the Dutch Leather and Shoe Museum. No injuries were reported, but authorities have confirmed that asbestos was released during the blaze.
Residents in the surrounding area received an NL-Alert advising them to close windows and doors and turn off mechanical ventilation systems. The fire, which produced significant plumes of smoke, was declared under control shortly after 2 a.m. Tuesday morning.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, according to the Midden- en West-Brabant Safety Region.
Specialized monitoring teams have been deployed to map areas where asbestos particles may have settled. The safety region urged the public not to touch any asbestos debris and to report sightings to local authorities.
"Residents who may have inhaled smoke are advised to contact their general practitioner for further guidance," the safety region stated.
The warehouse, a prominent structure in the area, was unoccupied at the time of the fire. Fire crews worked through the night to extinguish the flames, while officials monitored air quality and potential health risks for nearby residents.
