An investigation has been launched after a large fire took hold in a north Cumbrian warehouse.
Fire crews were called to AW Jenkinson’s warehouse at Hespin Wood, Rockcliffe, at 12.38am on Thursday. Four fire engines, a water bowser and aerial ladder, plus two Scottish fire engines attended.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service said it was not classed as a major incident, but partners are working together at the scene to scale it back and will remain there all day.
The fire involved machinery which spread to a building containing wood chip. Firefighters used two hose reel jets, one ground monitor and breathing apparatus to extinguish the fire.
No one was injured as a result of the incident and investigations are ongoing to identify a cause.
The site was handed back to AW Jenkinson’s site management team yesterday afternoon.
A Cumbria Fire and Rescue spokesman said: “We can confirm that the incident no longer requires direct firefighting as a proactive intervention and the premises is now back in the hands of the Site Management team at AW Jenkinson. Fire crews will be monitoring the site over the next 24 hours as a precautionary measure.”
Firefighters in the south of the county attended a large blaze in Barrow in the early hours.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service’s area manager Andy Lee said: “The swift and professional response of our crews meant that we were able to get on top of both incidents quickly and work throughout the night to bring it under control. Crews will continue their work at the scene of both incidents today as they damp down any remaining hotspots and ensure the safety of the area.”
Cumbria’s director of public health, Colin Cox said:”An assessment carried out early into the incidents identified the risk to health from any air pollution as very low.
“However due to the ongoing smoke in the areas, air quality levels will be affected.
“The advice from Public Health is that residents in these areas who are affected by the smoke should stay indoors and keep any windows and doors closed.
“Whilst the risk to health from the smoke is low, because any smoke is an irritant, it can make people’s eyes and throat sore. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions may be particularly susceptible to the smoke and should carry and use their medication (such as inhalers) as usual.
“The general advice therefore remains that if possible, people should try to remain out of the smoke. Any residents with any concerns about their individual health should contact their GP practice or NHS 111.”
