ODPEM Reports Continued Progress in Fighting Riverton Fire

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) is reporting continued progress in the fire-fighting efforts at the Riverton Disposal site.

The agency said that smoke emission, which is the main area of concern, has reduced significantly, as the operators of trucks and tractors work to transport cover material to the site.

Up to 10 trucks were utilised from midnight to 5:00 am this morning (March 17) in the effort to smother the fire, which has been burning on sections of the disposal site since last Wednesday (March 11).

In the meantime, ODPEM said residents may still experience smoke across the Corporate Area but this will be gradually reduced throughout the course of today into tomorrow.

The agency is urging residents to continue to heed precautions to reduce the effects of smoke exposure.

Residents in sections of the Gregory Park, Waterford and Greater Portmore communities and sections of the Toll Road, are advised to take precautions as heavy smoke was observed in those areas this morning. This is as a result of the work being done by the firefighters on the site.

The ODPEM is also urging schools and businesses in the affected areas to assess the situation and make a determination in the best interest of staff and students.

Residents are encouraged to take the following tips for protecting yourself from smoke inhalation:

• Avoid undue exposure to the smoke by closing windows and doors.

• Use a clean wet rag to cover your nose and mouth to minimise the effects of the smoke.

• The elderly, children and those with respiratory issues such as asthma or recent respiratory infections, should not participate in outdoor activities in areas affected by smoke and other emissions.

• Windows and doors should be kept closed to prevent exposure to smoke, dust and other emissions.