Virgin Gorda dumpsite fire prompts health warning

The BVI Health Services Authority has issued a health bulletin warning residents and visitors about smoke from a fire at the Virgin Gorda dumpsite, advising people to limit their time outdoors and take precautions to protect their health.

According to the authority, smoke from burning waste contains fine airborne particles and potentially harmful substances that can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, and may worsen existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

Children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with asthma, COPD or heart conditions face greater risks from smoke exposure, the authority said. Those in affected areas are advised to stay indoors when smoke is present, close windows and doors, and use air conditioning set to recirculate air where possible. Residents should also avoid outdoor exercise.

For those who must go outside in smoky conditions, the authority recommends wearing a well-fitting N95 or KN95 respirator, noting that cloth and surgical masks do not provide the same level of protection against fine smoke particles.

People experiencing difficulty breathing, persistent or severe coughing, chest discomfort, significant dizziness or worsening symptoms should seek medical attention. The Medical Centre can be reached at 440-1661, and emergency ambulance services are available at 119.

This is the second significant fire at the Virgin Gorda dumpsite in recent months. A similar fire in July forced the facility to close temporarily and prompted an earlier warning about smoke hazards.