A fire at a Salford synagogue caused significant damage just before a Sabbath service. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the community is heartbroken over the loss.
Salford: A large fire broke out at a synagogue, leaving the community in shock. The flames were visible from miles away, and it all happened just before the Friday night Sabbath service.
Worshippers were arriving when the fire started around 5 PM. Thankfully, no one was in the offices on the top floor, but about 50 people were on the ground floor for prayers.
Some folks noticed the smoke and quickly alerted others inside. They called emergency services and helped evacuate the building. It could have been much worse if it had started later.
Firefighters arrived with six engines and worked hard to control the flames. They used breathing apparatus and even an aerial platform to spray water from above.
While the fire was eventually put out after about four and a half hours, the damage was extensive. The third floor is ruined, and there’s water damage on the second floor.
Nachman, part of the synagogue management, expressed how upsetting it was. He said, “Our heart and soul is in that building.” It’s a place where everyone feels connected.
Friday nights are special for the Jewish community, marking the start of the Sabbath. It’s a time for family meals and prayers, making this incident even more heartbreaking.
Emergency services worked through the chaos, and locals watched in horror. The fire service suspects it might have been an electrical fire, but the cause is still under investigation.
As the community comes to terms with the damage, they’re grateful that no one was hurt. The synagogue is a vital part of their lives, and they’ll need time to heal from this loss.
