Several hundred evacuated with partial wall collapse - Fairfield
Published: 14 Feb 2025 05:27pm
Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is currently on scene monitoring a partial wall collapse in Fairfield, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of residents from a high-rise residential building and children from a neighbouring primary school.
Just before 1.15 pm, firefighters were called to the property on the corner of Fairfield Street and Vine Street where a 10-metre-high wall was observed bulging from the residential building.
People at the school identified the compromised wall in the adjoining complex and raised concerns about a potential collapse.
On arrival, firefighters found an obvious deflection in the wall, raising concerns for further collapse.
FRNSW specialists including Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams, who are experts in collapse and structural assessment, and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) drone operators are on scene assisting with operations.
Firefighters are using a laser monitoring system to detect any movement in the compromised wall. While no movement has been detected so far, an exclusion zone has been established, and an engineer is enroute to conduct an assessment of the building's structural integrity.
The primary school was swiftly evacuated as a precaution, with all students relocated safely. The school had a well-executed emergency management plan in place, ensuring the safety of the children, who have now left the premises.
The residential complex, home to several hundred residents, is currently being evacuated. Emergency management arrangements will be put in place to assist affected residents with alternative accommodation if required.
Operations are being supported by NSW Police, NSW Public Works engineers, utility providers and local council representatives.
Media note: Footage from the incident is available here: https://vimeo.com/1056655676/fb2d799dd7?share=copy [external link]
Updated: 14 Feb 2025 04:31pm
Related safety topics
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Stations nearby
198 Fairfield Road, Yennora NSW 2161
100 St Johns Rd, Cabramatta NSW 2166
875 The Horsley Drive, Smithfield - Fire Station NSW 2164