People urged to keep windows and doors shut after Barrow fire

People are urged to keep windows and doors closed following a refuse fire in Barrow as crews will remain on the scene for the next 24 hours.

Fire crews were called at 12.23am to JJC Scrap Metal Merchants in Sandscale Park and tackled the blaze, which involved mixed domestic rubbish in an open building.

A fire service spokesman said: “There is smoke in the area which is unpleasant however the current wind direction is directing smoke away from residential areas and across the Walney Channel. Should the wind direction change, local residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed.”

There are no injuries as a result of the incident. Investigations are ongoing to identify a cause.

Fire crews are working with the site team to retrieve the waste from the warehouse, extinguish and safely dispose of it.

Firefighters in the north of the county attended a large fire in Carlisle last night. The fire service said they were not being treated as major incidents.

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.”