News

Following a fire at a warehouse in Douglas Gardens, Poole, last night, a clean up operation by Borough of Poole’s Consumer Protection Services is underway.

During the night, residents in the area were advised by the Police and Dorset Fire & Rescue Service to stay indoors and close windows and doors following concerns that asbestos cement roofing at the warehouse had been damaged.

Dr Sue Bennett, Public Health Consultant, Dorset Health Authority, said: "Asbestos is only dangerous in this situation if it is breathed in in large amounts as dust or fibres. Due to the heavy rainfall and prompt action of the Fire Brigade, the roof was rapidly dampened down preventing dust and fibre formation. Environmental screening has confirmed this is the case so there is no risk to public health."

Shaun Robson, Consumer Protection Team Manager, said: "Because of the fire there is some debris in gardens adjacent to the factory. We would strongly advise the public not to handle this material themselves. Our team are visiting every property in the immediate area to safely remove and dispose of the debris in and around people’s gardens."

Anyone finding debris in their garden can contact Consumer Protection Services to arrange removal on tel: 01202 261700. The clean up operation is due to be completed this afternoon.