DURBAN - A HEALTH warning has been issued for Hammarsdale and surrounding communities by eThekwini Municipality regarding the Sequence Logistics cold storage warehouse that was still emitting harmful smoke.
The warehouse was looted and set alight three weeks ago during the looting and unrest in KwaZulu-Natal. The municipality’s Fire and Emergency Services is monitoring the site daily. However, the safety of the building is compromised making it difficult for firefighters to dampen down the warehouse.
“The warehouse is smouldering following a fire that began on July 13. It is therefore unsafe for emergency teams to enter to completely extinguish the burning,” said municipality spokesperson Msawakhe Mayisela.
Residents are encouraged to keep their doors and windows shut at all times. Additionally, vents should be covered with wet cloths to prevent smoke from entering buildings.
Residents are also advised to refrain from any activities that would result in indoor air pollution. These activities include smoking, frying or braaiing meat, vacuuming or sweeping floors, burning candles or using gas, propane, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves and/or aerosol sprays.
“For those who have access to respirators, the use of N95 respirators is encouraged. Smoke levels can change during the day, therefore it is advised to wait until air quality is better to recommence active outdoor activities. When the air quality improves, even temporarily, residents are encouraged to air out their homes to reduce indoor air pollution.”
The municipality’s Fire and Emergency Services along with environmental health practitioners would continue monitoring the site on Monday. Air pollution concerns can be reported at 031 311 355. The acting deputy head of pollution control and risk management, Ntsaphokazi Ncarashe, can also be contacted at 083 772 4104 after hours.
The municipality also issued a warning to looters not to consume any meat and poultry products from the warehouse. The Environmental Health Department said the products were potentially unsafe for consumption.
Daily News