Asbestos debris is thought to have landed on properties surrounding the site of a warehouse fire in Bootle earlier this week. Emergency services were called to the blaze on Fernhill Road at around 8.20pm on Tuesday, September 29, where firefighters found a warehouse well alight.
Nearby homes were evacuated and a road closure was put in place as firefighters fought the fire into the early hours of Wednesday. The fire caused significant damage to the building, which is believed to be the site of Fast Fit Garage and a furniture shop, with images showing damage to the hollowed-out roof.
Council warns residents about debris
The road remains closed, with residents and businesses close to the scene receiving a letter from Sefton Council informing them of the possibility of asbestos being in the debris scattered across surrounding properties. In the letter, seen by the ECHO, the council warns people not to touch the debris as it "may contain harmful materials like asbestos".
The letter, sent out on Thursday, October 1, said: "This work is being carried out by trained asbestos specialists, using appropriate equipment and methods to limit dust and prevent the material spreading. We understand that this may be concerning to hear and we want to reassure you that we are working quickly with partners to ensure this debris is removed safely."
"To assist with this removal and clean-up process the road closure on Fernhill Road will need to stay in place. While we understand this is causing disruption to traffic, this extended closure is necessary to ensure people are kept safe from any potential risks."
Guidance for those nearby
The letter offered the following guidance to people in the immediate vicinity: leave suspected debris where it is; do not pick it up, sweep it, vacuum it, mow over it or pressure-wash it; keep children, pets and other people away from affected areas; do not put debris in any bin, wash it into drains or take it to a recycling centre; and if debris is on your vehicle or driveway, do not wash it off or drive over it, but contact the council for advice.
The clean-up operation is now underway as hazmat-wearing workers look to clear the debris. The letter added: "Asbestos can pose a health risk if fibres are disturbed and are breathed in. Leaving debris undisturbed and having it removed by trained specialists helps significantly reduce potential exposure. Again, please leave the clean-up to the specialist teams."
Man charged with arson
A Merseyside Police investigation was launched as the fire unfolded, resulting in the arrest of a 37-year-old man from Belle Vale and a 28-year-old man from Kirkby. The force has since charged Kurram Shahzad, 37, who lives in Belle Vale, with arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered. He was remanded to appear at Wirral Magistrates' Court on October 1.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service said crews were alerted to the suspected arson attack at 8.23pm, arriving shortly afterward with eight fire engines and one aerial appliance. Firefighters remained at the site through the night, with several multi-agency meetings taking place during the early hours of Wednesday, September 30. Firefighting efforts continued into Wednesday morning. The ambulance service, which had been called to the scene, was stood down as the incident began to be scaled down. No injuries were reported.
Scottish Power was requested, and at 12.44am, the electricity to the affected property was isolated. A joint investigation between Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service and Merseyside Police is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact police.
