10-07-2025
Residents told to 'keep windows closed' after Elstow fire
People living near a recycling storage centre that has been on fire since Friday are being urged to keep their windows closed, despite the hot fire at Elstow Waste Transfer Station in Bedfordshire involves a large amount of household recycling, which was deemed "non-hazardous".However, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said the agencies involved were advising any residents affected by smoke to keep their doors and windows attempting to extinguish the blaze using high-expansion foam, a decision was made to demolish the building.
A fire specialist advised crews to be the first to try the "innovative tactic" of spraying expanding foam on Sunday, but it had "limited effect" because of where the fire had taken building has been declared structurally unsafe, meaning workers and emergency teams could not put water directly on the fire.
Areas including Wixams, Shortstown, Hayes and Houghton Conquest were affected by the smoke, the fire service a statement on Wednesday, it said: "As the forecasted temperature continues to rise over the coming days, the agencies involved have reviewed the current situation and the advice to residents remains the same; to keep their windows and doors closed if affected by smoke."Anyone with severe respiratory concerns should contact their GP or call 111, and those with existing respiratory conditions are advised to minimise their exposure."It also issued advice suggesting people open windows on the opposite side to the plume or smoke "when it is safe to do so".
Group Commander James West explained: "Waste fires are inherently difficult and complex incidents to resolve and rarely are concluded as quickly as we would like."The safety of the nearby residents, responders and on-site staff is paramount throughout an incident such as this, and we would like to thank those impacted for their continued patience and cooperation."
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