HEALTH and safety advice has been issued amid the ongoing fire at a battery recycling centre in Kilwinning.

Flames first engulfed the Fenix Battery Recycling centre on Byrehill Place shortly after 10pm on Monday, April 8.

Pennyburn Road, which runs adjacent to the fire area, was initially closed to the public before re-opening the following day. 

However, as smoke continues to billow throughout the area this road has been closed once more.

Emergency crews have remained at the scene in the near 36 hours since the blaze first took hold.

At its height, around 40 firefighters were mobilised to the scene with the most recent update from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) stating three appliances and a height vehicle remain on site. There are no reported casualties at present.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: The fire after breaking out.

As fire crews continue to battle the fire, and work with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and Public Health Scotland to monitor the situation, they have offered advice for anyone who has to enter the impacted area.

Area Commander Jim Quinn said: “We continue to work with the recycling centre and partner agencies to minimise the disruption to the local community and will continue to provide updates.

“While smoke continues to be visible, we would ask that residents remain at home, and keep windows and doors closed as a precaution. 

“If travelling through smoke, motorists should keep windows closed, turn off air conditioning and keep their air vents closed.”

Police Scotland and NHS Ayrshire and Arran have also provided further advice for those living around the West Byrehill and wider Pennyburn area.

Police say those living in the area should shelter inside and keep their windows shut and vents closed.

Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: Emergency crews at the scene.

There has been no requirement to evacuate residents as of yet though this will be kept under review.

The situation has the potential to continue for more than 24 further hours due to the current smoke levels in the surrounding area. 

A NHS Ayrshire and Arran spokesperson added: "If anyone becomes unwell, medical advice should be sought, please contact your GP or call NHS 24 on 111. 

"Only in the event of immediate danger, call the Emergency Services on 999.

"Residents of the West Byrehill housing estate will receive specific sheltering advice via Cunningham Housing Association, and we urge those residents not to leave their homes or encourage people to visit."

Residents requiring care at home services are advised that workers will still be able to attend though they may require to use facemasks.

Further information will be relayed on the SFRS, Police Scotland Ayrshire and NHS Ayrshire and Arran social media channels.