The ESG says Swallowing or inhaling hydrocarbons (released by such fires) can cause lung irritation, with coughing, choking, shortness of breath, and neurological problems. It says Severe symptoms can be produced if inhaled in quantity. The group believes the advice of closing windows, as the only health advice given by the authorities, is wholly inadequate and citizens should be guided to report to their hospitals with any symptoms.
It also calls on the Gibraltar Government to follow up on the Spanish reports to ensure that highest standards follow in the handling of these combustible products stored mere kilometres away from the Rock.
This happened in 2019
June 25, 2019 - A huge fire is blazing at a petrochemical plant in San Roque, southern Spain, prompting local authorities to warn residents to remain inside their homes with windows closed in case of toxic fumes. A fire reportedly started at a petrochemical plant in San Roque, Andalusia, this afternoon. A plume of smoke was seen rising over the Bay of Gibraltar as a result of the blaze (main and inset). A state of emergency is expected to be declared by authorities as the plant contains highly flammable products (right). Algeciras city council activated its emergency response plan. The nature of the highly flammable material being stored inside the warehouse made tackling the flames difficult for fire fighters.
