No big risk from recycling yard fire, state says

The plume of black smoke that drifted into the air Tuesday as a fire burned through a stack of automobile scrap at an Adams County recycling yard could be seen for miles, leading some drivers to pull off the road and film the dark cloud.

The smoke carried the potential to cause shortterm respiratory irritation to people near the fire, which occurred in the 5600 block of York Street. But state health officials say they don’t believe the black smoke and fumes will create long-term health risks for residents.

“The plume and fumes from a fire like this would be harmful if directly breathed,” said Dr. Larry Wolk, chief medical officer and executive director of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment in an emailed statement. “If fires with noxious and potentially toxic fumes burned longer term, there would be more concern, similar to longerterm emissions, like we experience on high ozone days.”

When the fire broke out at the recycling yard Tuesday, Adams County Fire Rescue officials warned area residents to stay indoors and avoid the smoke.

Such smoke can irritate the respiratory system and cause coughing, difficulty breathing, headaches and runny noses. People with existing respiratory conditions are most vulnerable to air quality issues.