Cumbria’s Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner David Allen, has praised the quick response of local agencies to the fire at BAE Systems in Barrow.
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service, Cumbria Constabulary, Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, North West Ambulance Service, NHS, Westmorland and Furness Council and BAE Systems all responded to a fire in the shipyard at 12.45am yesterday, Wednesday October 30.
Mr Allen said: “I really commend all services coming together to tackle the fire at BAE Systems.
“The quick response meant that Cumbria and Lancashire fire and rescue services were able to get the blaze under control and therefore ensuring the safety of those who work in the yard.
“Thank you to all the emergency services that attended the fire and provided the public with safety messages – it can be an incredibly daunting experience and the bravery it takes to put the safety of others first has to be applauded.
“I also want to extend my thanks to the council and NHS for supporting the local community throughout providing safe places to attend and for reassuring those with health concerns.
“It is absolutely a team effort and without all of you taking action, the outcome could have been much worse – I want you all to know that I appreciate all that you have done with regards to this fire and the wider community.
“I also want to thank the public for following the recommendations of the emergency services.”
An investigation has been launched into the cause of a major fire at BAE Systems’ Barrow shipyard this week.
Two people were taken to hospital with suspected smoke inhalation, but have since been released.
Firefighters managed to supress the blaze and spent most of yesterday dampening down the fire.
There was no nuclear risk, Cumbria police said.
National media is speculating that faulty equipment could be to blame and also that the blaze could set back Aukus.
Emergency services remained in attendance at BAE Systems for much of yesterday.
A multi-agency investigation is ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.
People were advised to keep their windows and doors closed and to wind up their windows and turn off air conditioning in vehicles if driving nearby, but that advice was withdrawn as firefighters took control of the blaze.
Michaelson Bridge was closed for most of the day but reopened in the afternoon.
A major incident response and related strategic co-ordination group was also stood down yesterday afternoon.
Barrow and Furness MP Michelle Scrogham said: “I’ve been in regular contact with BAE Systems and ministers.
“I’m incredibly relieved to hear that those involved have now been allowed home from hospital.
“A huge thank you to our wonderful emergency services for their brave work overnight. Teams are now surveying the cause and any damage in this ongoing situation and rather than speculate, I will update once we know more.”
