A massive fire has torn through a textiles business in Footscray early today with firefighters warning local workers and residents to avoid breathing in the thick, acrid smoke from the blaze.
The blaze erupted at 5am and quickly spread through the two storey offices of Pioneer Textiles in Cowper Street, Footscray, said Acting Chief Commander Darren Conlin of the MFB.
He said crews arrived to find the fire in a factory complex with the centre buildings engulfed by flames.
Advertisement: Story continues below "It's a large fire. It's difficult to get to. We've got premises adjoining either side. We have access from the front and limited access from the rear," said Acting Assistant Chief Commander Conlin.
It was believed the fire took hold in the second story of the building and spread throughout the entire premises, but no damage had been caused to the neighbouring businesses.
"We've been able to contain it to the building of origin. But that building is a total loss," he said.
"There is a large amount of smoke pushing out over the western suburbs and we advise the community to stay indoors and close the windows, turn off air conditioners, and stay out of the smoke.
"We've got about 50 firefighters here, about 20 appliances, and we'll be here for most of the day."
It was not known if anyone was present at the business when the fire began.
Acting Assistant Chief Commander Conlin said it was too early to say what had started the fire or where in the building it ignited. An engineer was en route to assess the structural integrity of the building.
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