Concern over chemical from storage site fire

I was concerned to read your article “Blaze breaks out at storage site near Hillingdon Hospital” (Gazette, 16 March) and to see your photo of the huge blaze at a storage unit at Pield Heath Road near Uxbridge on 10 March.

You reported that it took 70 firefighters and 10 fire engines to put the fire out! There was said to be ‘a number of cylinders involved’ and a great deal of smoke was given off. Burning plastic and other substances can give off cyanide, arsenic, cancer-causing dioxins and other harmful chemicals.

What is allowed to be stored in those units? The fire started around 7.13pm and was brought under control over four hours later at 11.52pm by the courageous firefighters. I think nearby residents should be informed of just what was burnt and of any possible future risk to their health. Importantly, we need to know what is being done to prevent another such terrible fire. Name and address supplied