Two accidents in Tuscany within a short distance of each other. In Prato, the breakage of a pipe in the refrigeration system of the Coop supermarket in via Valentini caused smoke to escape, leading to the evacuation of the premises. At the same time, a fire affected the technical room of the Esselunga shopping center in Sesto Fiorentino, where the compressors of the refrigeration systems are located. Both incidents, resolved thanks to the rapid intervention of the firefighters, highlight the importance of maintaining refrigeration systems to ensure public safety and the protection of facilities.
On the afternoon of 18 June, the Coop supermarket in via Valentini in Prato was evacuated due to a problem with the goods refrigeration system. A broken pipe caused smoke to escape, which was initially mistaken for a fire. The timely intervention of the firefighters allowed the fault to be identified and resolved quickly, making the area safe and ensuring the protection of the people present.
On the same day, a fire broke out in the Esselunga shopping center in via Antonio Gramsci in Sesto Fiorentino. The flames affected the technical room on the second basement floor, where the compressors of the refrigeration systems are located, during a maintenance operation. The call to the fire department came in at 9.30am, leading to the precautionary evacuation of the building.
The fire, fueled by materials present in the technical room, required the intervention of several fire brigade teams, including a tanker from the Prato command and the air tank for ventilation. Two workers, trapped on the roof due to fumes, were saved thanks to the use of the ladder truck. Arpat technicians carried out surveys and advised nearby residents to keep their windows closed to limit exposure to fumes.
Both incidents highlight the critical importance of maintaining and monitoring refrigeration systems. The rapid and effective response of the firefighters made it possible to manage emergencies without serious consequences, guaranteeing public safety and the protection of structures. These events highlight how refrigeration systems, essential for the conservation of goods, require correct maintenance by duly trained personnel to prevent dangerous situations.
