While the swell remained tame this Saturday, May 23, an entirely different surge shook the Pédebert area: a violent fire engulfed a surfboard factory, mobilizing nearly fifty firefighters from Landes to contain the blaze.
The fire, visible from the D652 ramp, was a reminder that even far from the lineup, the risk is real in workshops where resins and solvents sit alongside high temperatures. With the gauge fixed on the facts, we look back at this event that stirred up Soorts-Hossegor.
Fire in Soorts-Hossegor: a swift response from Landes firefighters
The fire alarm went off at 11:28 a.m. Less than four minutes later, the first fire engine roared down Pau Llosa Lane. Twenty vehicles, including two ladder trucks and an advanced medical post, converged. The response involved 47 firefighters from the Capbreton, Seignosse, and Saint-Vincent-de-Tyrosse stations.
Response timeline: from the alert to cooling the resin hotspots
Thick black smoke rose from the insulated roof, suggesting that a polyester resin tank had likely caught fire. Teams cut the power, deployed two foam lines, and advanced wearing breathing apparatus. At 12:07 p.m., the main fire front was contained; at 1:45 p.m., crews began stripping away materials to prevent any flare-up.
Why shaping workshops are particularly vulnerable
Fiberglass, foam blanks, and catalyzed solvents create a highly flammable cocktail. A single spark is enough to trigger a flash fire reaching 1,000°C. Standard dry-chemical extinguishers are quickly overwhelmed; only the emulsifying foam used yesterday truly suppresses the vapors.
- Solvents stored less than three meters from a sanding area
- No approved safety cabinets for peroxides
- Extraction systems undersized for PU dust
- Pressurized gas cylinders used for UV glassing
Since 2024, the SDIS 40 prevention unit has stepped up inspection visits. Several workshops, including the affected one, had already been made aware of the risks. For those seeking greener alternatives to chemical shaping, the guide published on sustainable initiatives in Landes offers practical options.
Human and material toll: three minor smoke inhalations, inventory lost to the flames
Three employees, mildly affected by smoke, were taken to Dax Hospital. In terms of equipment, nearly 1,200 EPS blanks and a thousand carbon fins did not survive. Below are the key figures compiled by the fire command post.
| Measured item | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Number of firefighters | 47 responders | SDIS 40 |
| Length of the response | 2 h 17 | PC log |
| Area destroyed | 1,800 m² | Preliminary assessments |
| Est. material losses | €1.4M | Insurer |
The collective of local shapers is already preparing a fundraiser. Neighboring workshops, less affected, have offered to temporarily host production, proof that solidarity still rides like a longboard on a glassy summer day. A recovery schedule will be published once approved by insurers and health authorities; follow it via the municipal newsletter.
What are the likely causes of this fire?
Initial findings point to a hot spot in the polyester resin curing area. The investigation will need to determine whether an electrical fault or an improperly controlled exothermic reaction was involved.
Will the factory’s production be relocated?
Yes, several partner shaping rooms say they are ready to temporarily accommodate the workforce and essential small tools during reconstruction.
How can local residents reduce future risks?
Report any sign of smoke to 112, observe daytime parking restrictions during red alert days, and take part in awareness sessions organized by SDIS.
Will boards already ordered be delivered?
The manufacturer is committed to fulfilling preorders through a network of independent shapers. Lead times are expected to increase by two to three weeks depending on the model.