Air Quality Warning Issued as Fire Burns at Robin Hood Bay

Photo: Ryan Smith

An air quality statement has been issued for parts of the St. John's region as emergency crews continue to respond to a fire at the Robin Hood Bay waste management facility.

The St. John's Regional Fire Department, along with City of St. John's crews, remains on scene battling the fire.

Environment Canada has issued an air quality statement affecting several areas, including the east end of St. John's, St. John's International Airport, Torbay, Logy Bay and Outer Cove.

Residents in affected areas are being advised to keep windows and doors closed and to turn off air exchangers and HVAC systems to reduce exposure to smoke entering their homes.

Health officials are urging anyone experiencing symptoms related to smoke exposure, including severe coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing or heart palpitations, to contact 811 or seek medical attention.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined.