Kruisem Fire: Construction Company Blaze Injures Worker, Sends Smoke Plume

Kruisem, Belgium – A large-scale fire erupted at the Vanhulle construction company on the industrial estate in Kruisem, Belgium, on Friday afternoon, sending a significant plume of smoke visible for miles. Emergency services are currently on the scene battling the blaze and one worker has been transported to a hospital in Ghent with burn injuries. The incident, which began around 1:00 PM local time, prompted a response from multiple fire zones across East and West Flanders.

Initial reports indicate the fire originated within the Vanhulle facility, a company specializing in building materials, tiles, and roofing. Firefighters were quickly overwhelmed, requesting reinforcements from neighboring fire zones Centrum and Fluvia. While initially reported as a roof fire, authorities now confirm it is a structural fire within the building itself. The swift response from emergency services prevented the fire from spreading to adjacent properties, a crucial success in mitigating potential further damage.

According to Jonathan Jouret of the Flemish Ardennes fire zone, the situation is now under control, though firefighters remain on site to fully extinguish the flames and ensure no further flare-ups occur. “The call came in around 1:00 PM at our services,” Jouret stated. “When our teams arrived, they immediately requested reinforcements from the Centrum and Fluvia fire zones.”

Extent of the Damage and Environmental Concerns

The fire has caused a partial collapse of a wall within the Vanhulle building. The resulting smoke plume, described as black and dense, is visible from a considerable distance, including in the nearby city of Waregem. Local authorities are urging residents in the surrounding areas to close windows and doors and turn off ventilation systems as a precautionary measure. While no hazardous materials are reported to have been released, officials emphasize that smoke itself is harmful to health.

Burgemeester (Mayor) Joop Verzele of Kruisem confirmed the fire is contained but stressed the importance of adhering to safety guidelines. “We ask everyone in the wider area to keep windows and doors closed and switch off ventilation,” Verzele said. VRT News reports that the mayor is currently at the scene assessing the situation.

Worker Injured, Hospitalized in Ghent

One employee of Vanhulle sustained burn injuries during the fire and was immediately transported to the University Hospital (UZ) in Ghent for treatment. The extent of the injuries has not been publicly disclosed. Authorities have not released the identity of the injured worker, citing privacy concerns. The focus remains on providing medical care and support to the individual affected.

The industrial estate where Vanhulle is located, De Zaubeek, is situated close to the E17 motorway, a major transportation artery in Belgium. While the fire has not directly impacted traffic flow on the E17, authorities are advising motorists to exercise caution in the area due to the presence of emergency vehicles and potential smoke-related visibility issues.

Impact on Local Residents and Businesses

The fire has prompted concern among residents in Kruisem and surrounding communities. The visible smoke plume and the potential for air quality issues have led to widespread advice to remain indoors. The nearby GO Basisschool De Keimolen elementary school took precautionary measures, keeping all students and staff inside. School officials are communicating updates to parents regarding student pick-up procedures. AVS News reports that the school director assured parents that all children and personnel were safe.

The economic impact of the fire on Vanhulle and the local business community remains to be seen. The extent of the damage to the facility will determine the length of time it takes for the company to resume operations. Vanhulle serves both professional contractors and individual customers, providing a range of building materials, tiles, and roofing products. The disruption to their services could affect ongoing construction projects and home renovation plans in the region.

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Measures

An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway. Fire officials have not yet determined the origin of the blaze, but they are conducting a thorough examination of the site to identify potential contributing factors. The investigation will involve analyzing fire patterns, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing safety protocols at the Vanhulle facility.

Authorities are reiterating the importance of following safety guidelines in the aftermath of the fire. Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed, avoid prolonged exposure to smoke, and report any respiratory issues to their healthcare provider. The local municipality is providing updates on the situation through its website and social media channels.

Key Takeaways

• A significant fire broke out at the Vanhulle construction company in Kruisem, Belgium, on March 6, 2026.
• One worker was injured and transported to the UZ Ghent hospital with burn injuries.
• Authorities have contained the fire, but firefighters remain on scene.
• Residents in the surrounding areas are advised to close windows and doors due to smoke.
• An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.

The situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as they become available. Authorities are expected to release a preliminary report on the cause of the fire within the next few days. The focus will then shift to assessing the full extent of the damage and developing a plan for the rebuilding process. The municipality of Kruisem will continue to provide support to affected residents and businesses.

We will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as they become available. Please share this article with anyone who may be affected by the fire and leave your comments below.