French union warns of 'health disaster' as firefighters lack gear

Industrial blaze triggers mass confinement

Authorities in eastern France on Sunday ordered approximately 30,000 residents to remain indoors after a fire broke out at an industrial facility containing toxic substances in the Gandrange industrial zone, according to broadcaster Franceinfo. The blaze erupted at the Safe company's facility in the Moselle department, where nearly 100 firefighters and around 50 emergency vehicles were deployed, local officials said. A large plume of black smoke had been visible above the site since around 10 am local time (0800GMT), according to witnesses.

Toxic smoke prompts safety measures

As a precaution, authorities instructed residents of five municipalities — Gandrange, Amneville, Vitry-sur-Orne, Clouange, and Rombas — to "remain confined until further notice." Residents were advised to stay inside, keep doors and windows closed, and seal openings as much as possible. The confinement measure affected approximately 30,000 people living in the industrial region near the Luxembourg border.

Emergency response continues

The fire involved a 500-square-meter (5,382-square-foot) warehouse, with the presence of toxic substances at the site confirmed by emergency services. Firefighting operations were ongoing as authorities monitored air quality levels in the surrounding area, according to local officials.