‘Already we have some concerns’
Investigation underway into deadly fireworks explosion
COTEAU-DU-LAC, Que. — Officials want to know why a fireworks plant, levelled Thursday by a blast that killed two women inside, didn’t have sprinklers and is located a kilometre from the nearest fire hydrant.
Investigations are underway Friday into the blast that destroyed the BEM plant in Coteau-du-Lac, 60 km southwest of Montreal.
Some 150 firefighters were called in from neighbouring communities.
“Fourteen fire departments took part in the operation, mainly to transport water,” said fire chief Stephane Massicotte.
Public Security Minister Stephane Bergeron said the lack of water was a surprise to him.
“We will await the outcome of the investigation, but I can tell you that already we have some concerns,” the minister told reporters in Quebec City. “We’ll surely learn some important lessons from this unfortunate event.”
The bodies of two women were pulled from the rubble on Thursday afternoon. Town mayor Robert Sauve confirmed that the explosive-laden building did not have sprinklers.
“This company has been here since 1970 and the standards weren’t what they are today,” he said.
When asked if the fireworks plant was properly regulated, he said appropriate operating permits had been issued.
“These companies are subject to laws, both federal and provincial. So we have to conform to these rules and regulations.”
He added that “there hadn’t been any sign that would have allowed us to believe this could happen.”
The workplace, health and safety commission is investigating the explosion.
The identities of the victims had not been released as of Friday afternoon.