Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is in attendance at a waste fire near Buckshaw Village, Chorley.

This fire is releasing a large smoke plume that may affect nearby residents and businesses. Please read the following information on how to keep safe if near the incident, particularly as we experience warmer weather. 

We recommend that you keep windows and doors closed, despite the warm weather.  If you live or work near the ongoing fire on Dawsons Lane, Chorley take extra precautions if you are out and about.  

Advice for those affected by smoke 

Smoke can irritate air passages, skin and eyes, resulting in coughing and wheezing, breathlessness and chest pain. If you have pre-existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, such as asthma, remember to carry any necessary medication or inhalers with you at all times and seek medical advice if your symptoms worsen, by contacting your GP or NHS 111. 

Advice for local residents during hot weather 

We are currently at heat health alert level 3 and it is important that you protect yourself from the smoke, whilst also keeping cool. We recommend that residents:

• avoid areas affected by smoke from this large-scale fire 
• stay indoors, keep your doors and windows closed, tune in to local radio station for advice and information if there is visible smoke from your property
• draw curtains to limit direct sunlight heating-up internal surfaces 
• use fans to recirculate air within the house to help keep cool
• take a break from the heat by moving to a cooler part of the house (especially for sleeping)
• wear lighter clothing 
• keep hydrated with cool drinks
• check that central heating, lights and electrical equipment not in use are turned off 
•  set any air conditioning (preferably fitted with a HEPA filter) to recirculate mode 
•  open windows that are on the opposite side to the plume/smoke (when it is safe to do so), and when the air feels cooler outside than inside to get air flowing through the home, for example, at night
•  once the smoke has moved away, consider opening doors and windows to allow properties to cool down, being mindful of changing conditions and be aware that the smoke could return

• If driving in smoky areas keep your windows wound up, air vents closed and switch off air conditioning systems to prevent drawing in outside air.

For more information on the ongoing fire incident visit https://www.facebook.com/LancashireFireandRescueService