Extinguishing the flames is the hardest and most dangerous part, traditionally done with high explosives.
Baddick's company uses 1,360kg extinguishers which spray90kg of dry chemicals a second to smother the flames, but the firefighters have to get within a few feet, protected from the extreme heat by sheetmetal barriers and a constant shower of water.
"If there is a high gas concentration then it will burn even hotter," Baddick said. "It's the most fun you can have with your clothes on."



