May 14th, 2007

Residents in an area of Poole in the UK have been warned that they could be at risk of exposure to asbestos following a huge fire. The asbestos was discovered in the roof of a garage, which collapsed when a fierce blaze broke out in the Ashley Road area earlier in the week.

Authorities had to evacuate homes and shops in the area in order to deal with the blaze, which was dangerously close to a gas cylinder store. Fire fighters were pretty certain that the roof of the garage that collapsed in the fire contained asbestos. However, according to officials from the Health Protection Agency any adverse health effects are likely to be minimal.

Residents of the area have been warned to look out for white flakes or material, and to keep windows and doors closed if there do appear to be deposits. Cleaning of sills should be carried out wearing gloves and with a damp cloth, residents have been told.

One official warned residents to be on guard and take precautions. He stated: "If you do see any material or flakes do not touch, break or crush it as this may release asbestos fibres."