Police say they are continuing to work closely with local partners, including the Environment Agency, the UK Health Security Agency, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, Rushcliffe Borough Council, and Nottinghamshire County Council, as part of a multi-agency response to a fire at the Hathernware Industrial Estate in Sutton Bonington.
A dedicated air quality cell has been set up by experts from UKHSA and the Environment Agency to carry out a risk assessment, which found the risk to public health is low. This will continue to be monitored.
Dr Samia Latif, consultant in health protection for UKHSA East Midlands, said: “We understand the public may feel concerned, as any smoke or odour is unpleasant and can be an irritant.
“Whilst smoke continues to be present in the area, residents and businesses are advised to avoid smoke where possible and continue to stay indoors, keep doors and windows closed, and follow updates from the fire service for further advice and information.
“Odours do occur following a large fire, but the levels at which people detect odours are often well below those levels which are harmful to health.
“The air quality risk to public health from this incident has been assessed as low, and we continue to work with partners to monitor this.”
Some substances present in smoke can irritate the lining of the air passages, the skin, and the eyes.
Respiratory symptoms can include coughing and wheezing, breathlessness, sputum (phlegm) production, and chest pain.
Chemicals in the smoke can also worsen existing health problems such as asthma.
People with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions may be particularly susceptible and should carry and use their medication, including inhalers, as usual.
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as coughing or breathlessness, which they believe may be related to smoke exposure, should contact their GP or call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.
