Pennsylvania Fire: Blaze Still Burns, Evacuation Orders Lifted
Abington Township, PA – January 19, 2023 – Evacuation orders have been lifted near an Abington Township manufacturing facility that ignited in a massive fire on Monday night. Despite the progress in containment, the blaze at SPS Technologies continues to burn, posing ongoing challenges for authorities.
Fire Under Control, but Conditions Deteriorate
According to Chief Patrick Molloy of the Abington Township Police Department, the fire at SPS Technologies, a manufacturer of fasteners primarily for the aerospace industry, is "not officially suppressed." While officials initially believed they had the fire under control, changing conditions hampered efforts and resulted in a resurgence of heavy smoke.
Molloy described the flare-up as a result of the immense size of the building (500,000 square feet) and its complex structure, making it difficult to extinguish every ember. Hazmat teams and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection continue to monitor air quality, which has remained within acceptable limits.
Officials Prepare for Demolition
To combat the persistent blaze, officials are considering deploying a demolition crew. However, the operation is being hindered by strong winds, frigid temperatures, and the presence of hazardous chemicals at the site. The specific chemicals involved have not been disclosed.
Air Quality Monitoring and Drinking Water Safety
Air quality tests have not detected concerning levels of chemicals in the neighborhood affected by smoke, including areas near the Tookany Creek. Water samples taken from the Delaware River also showed no presence of harmful chemicals. Drinking water sources are currently not at risk.
Debris Concerns and Community Support
Authorities have advised residents to avoid touching any debris that has landed in their yards. Instead, they should contact authorities for safe removal. Tom McAneney, director of Fire & Emergency Management Services, emphasized the importance of following safety protocols.
SPS Technologies has been compliant with fire safety regulations, maintaining a sprinkler system and fire watch. The company has been praised for its cooperation and support for workers and the community.
Unique Challenges and Ongoing Updates
Chris Platz, Abington Township Fire Marshal, described the fire as "a unique case" due to its size and complexity. Officials are taking a methodical approach, working section-by-section to extinguish the blaze.
Updates on the fire are being disseminated through Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and the website www.tinyurl.com/SPSUpdate.
Reporter’s Contact Information
Saleen Martin, a reporter on USA TODAY’s NOW team, is covering this story. She can be reached at [email protected].
