Photo by Jesús Bustamante
Jacuzzi’s manufacturing plant in Tijuana, Mexico, sustained fire damage Saturday afternoon at approximately 2 p.m. local time. According to local sources, the fire led to the evacuation of 40 employees, but no injuries were reported.
Three different area fire stations, a total of 50 firefighters, came to the factory’s aid, containing the fire Saturday night and completely extinguishing it Monday.
An official statement issued by Jacuzzi Senior Vice President of Marketing Ed Sofia indicates the damage should not dramatically impair production:
“Some manufacturing equipment and supplies were damaged. The majority of the company’s production capabilities remain intact. The front portion of the factory was inspected, granted a license to operate by the Tijuana Fire Department and was up and running again within two business days. Jacuzzi is grateful for the rapid action of the first responders and for the health and wellbeing of our local team.”
The head of the Tijuana Fire Department, José Luis Jiménez, has advised surrounding residents to stay inside until the site is cleaned up or at least until smoke emissions subside. Jacuzzi is currently working with outside experts to determine the cause of the fire; the investigation remains ongoing.