A cloud of dark smoke billowed over Kingston after a structure fire broke out at KIMCO Steel Thursday morning.
Kingston Fire and Rescue crews were joined by first responders from the Loyalist Township and South Frontenac, as well as excavators, as they worked to manage the blaze at John Counter Boulevard, the City of Kingston said in a news release posted on its website.
The fire started at approximately 8:40 a.m. Thursday and reportedly originated in an outdoor pile of materials. Seventy-five firefighters were said to have responded to the fire, which was contained later that day, according to the city.
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No injuries were reported.
“Prior to this morning’s incident, Kingston Fire & Rescue had identified fire safety concerns at the property and issued an inspection order to the property owner outlining the necessary corrective measures,” the news release said. It added that fire crews will work with the property owner to ensure the site meets safety standards.
The City of Kingston said a damage estimate cannot be provided yet.
The smoke prompted several Limestone District School Board schools to shelter in place, according to a message sent to families of students at the affected schools.
All students and staff are safe, the district said. It said sheltering in place typically involves ensuring doors and windows are closed, noting that indoor school activities will continue as normal.
Southeast Public Health (SEPH) said it is working closely with the crews responding to the fire, in an email statement to Global News.
“You can reduce smoke exposure by staying indoors when possible and closing windows and doors,” it continued.
Anyone experiencing difficulty breathing or other symptoms of smoke exposure was urged by the SEPH to seek emergency medical care.
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