Junkyard Fire Prompts Air Quality Response In Southwest Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia firefighters are battling a junkyard fire in Southwest Philadelphia and health officials are looking into air quality issues due to the blaze.

The fire broke out at about 3:30 p.m. Monday at 61st Street and West Passyunk Avenue, according to the Philadelphia Fire Department.

The scene is a junkyard where vehicles are on fire.

Crews are on scene battling the fire and urging the public to avoid the area.

Philadelphia Department of Public Health is also warning residents to avoid the area or try to stay inside.

Health inspectors are on scene to collect air samples to assess air quality and the potential for any threat.

"At this time, no specific hazardous substances have been identified, and the Department is taking this action out of an abundance of caution," officials said.

Residents in the area should take precautions to avoid unnecessary exposure to smoke.

The Health Department recommends doing the following to protect yourself and your family from poor air quality:

• Avoid going outdoors as much as possible.
• If you must go outside, avoid excessive activity, such as jogging or running, and wear a mask, if available.
• Close all windows and doors to minimize air pollution in your home.
• Recirculate air with fans to avoid bringing more air pollution into your home.
• If conditions in your home are uncomfortably hot, seek air conditioned spaces such as a library, store, or mall rather than opening windows if there is smoke in your area.

The air may be potentially hazardous for sensitive groups, including children, elderly people, people who are pregnant, and those with respiratory diseases or heart conditions.

• Avoid areas of high congestion and where air pollution may be high (e.g., main streets or highways, areas with low circulation).
• People with underlying illnesses should monitor for symptoms, including trouble breathing, nausea, and dizziness. If these symptoms occur, seek medical attention as soon as possible.