Residents in Anguilla are having misgivings about the origin of a fire which flared up in an area of discarded tyres at the Corito landfill on Monday morning, May 11.
The huge fire, fanned by relatively high wind, and seen from miles across Anguilla, sent billows of black smoke towering over some sections of the island and travelling from a south-east to north-west direction.
Similar fires were recorded at Corito last year and the year before. Monday’s conflagration was fought by personnel from the Anguilla Fire and Rescue Service, with valuable assistance from a number of private water truck and backhoe operators.
A press release from the Ministry of Health and Social Development, stated that the controlled fire might continue to smoulder for several days.
“Smoke is an irritant that can make people’s eyes and throat sore,” the release went on. “It may also worsen any existing breathing or heart conditions. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions may be particularly susceptible to the smoke and should carry and use their medication as prescribed by their doctor. Persons are advised to seek medical attention should symptoms worsen.”
The press release added: “Officials will continue to monitor the situation. Persons should stay out of the smoke as much as possible. If residents are affected by smoke, staying indoors with the doors and windows closed will provide additional protection.
“The Ministry of Health and the Department of Health Protection are advising persons to stay tuned to media houses for further updates.”
