Fforestfach major fire incident update

FIRE
Emergency services remain at the scene of a major fire on the Fforestfach industrial estate.

There are currently 50 firefighters at the scene along with 11 appliances. The fire service is working to contain the fire.

ROAD CLOSURES
Ystrad Road, Bruce Road, Kingsway and Queensway are currently closed to traffic. Appropriate diversionary signs are in place to advise road users of alternative routes.

BUSINESSES
Fforestfach Industrial Estate also remains closed to vehicles. While this is causing disruption to local businesses, no vehicles can access the site due to the significant scale of the firefighting operation.

The emergency services are assisting some local businesses to gain temporary access to their premises and are working to restore vehicle access to the industrial estate.

ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH
Air quality measurements taken from near the scene of the fire show that the concentrations of pollutants in the smoke have the potential to irritate eyes, nose and throat and cause an impact on health if inhaled.

There is greater potential for health problems in people with existing chest and lung problems such as asthma, chronic bronchitis and cardiac problems including angina.

Local residents are advised to minimise exposure by staying indoors and closing windows and doors. Local air quality continues to be monitored to determine ongoing public health impacts. Anyone with symptoms who is concerned should try to avoid the affected area and contact NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 or their GP.

Businesses unable to close windows and doors should conduct their own risk assessment to determine whether it is appropriate for their employees to attend work.

POLLUTION CONTROL
Environment Agency Wales is working to protect the Fforestfach Stream and have deployed booms and other pollution control equipment to minimise any pollution. They continue to monitor the stream as well as air quality of the wider area. The Agency is assisting the fire service with its response by providing technical advice and helping to contain any potentially contaminated firewater.

FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information check local media, City and County of Swansea website www.swansea.gov.uk and Twitter @swanseacouncil

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