Burwood Resource Recovery Park fire

Burwood Resource Recovery Park Ltd, in conjunction with Rural Fire Canterbury and Christchurch City Council are currently managing a fire in the Burwood Resource Recovery Park.

The fire started yesterday afternoon in a pile of recycled timber recovered from the red zone.

Waste Management NZ Ltd South Island General Manager Gareth James says everyone is working to contain the fire.

"The fire covers an area of approximately two hectares, is deep-seated and has the potential to burn for several days. We are confident however that the fire can be contained within the substantial firebreak without spreading further."

Christchurch City Council Emergency Management Manager Murray Sinclair says fires like this one cannot be doused with water, as that can cause further issues.

"Water can increase the heat intensity, similar to the way a compost pile works. Our firefighting teams are endeavouring to keep the fire contained.

"Yesterday afternoon smoke covered parts of the north east of the city. Fortunately the wind direction changed overnight to southerly, which has resulted in the smoke heading out to sea."

Mr Sinclair says the wind direction has changed this afternoon to a light easterly which could result in the smoke once again covering parts of the city.

Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Alistair Humphrey says the fire at Burwood Resource Recovery Park is unlikely to cause any health issues at this stage.

“The fire is being fuelled by untreated wood and is not dangerous from a public health point of view,” says Dr Humphrey.

“However, any kind of smoke is undoubtedly a nuisance and people should avoid exposure where possible by staying indoors and closing windows and doors.”

The smoke may irritate the eyes, nose, throat and airways. Symptoms can include runny or sore eyes, dry or sore throat, sore nose, cough, tightness of the chest or difficulty breathing, and tend to be worse in people with pre-existing health conditions. If you experience any symptoms contact your general practice team.

Dr Humphrey says should the fire spread beyond the woodpile, the smoke plume is likely to become heavier and more noxious, but health advice stays the same – stay away from the smoke if that’s possible.

“If that is not possible, close windows and doors to minimise exposure.”

ENDS

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