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Canvey Island fire: Reports of 'explosion' at industrial unit Canvey Island fire: Reports of 'explosion' at industrial unit
(about 3 hours later)
Dozens of firefighters are tackling a major blaze at an industrial unit. Dozens of firefighters have tackled a major blaze at an industrial unit and a neighbouring field.
There were reports of a loud explosion being heard at the unit on Northwick Road, Canvey Island in Essex. It followed reports of a loud explosion at the unit on Northwick Road, Canvey Island in Essex just after 14:00 BST.
Essex Fire and Rescue Service crews were called to the area just after 14:00 BST. Eleven appliances are in attendance. Kevin Haywood, of Essex Fire and Rescue Service, said the "industrial unit fire is now out" and crews were damping down the field fire which had been put out.
Station manager Kevin Haywood said the crews had "made good progress in the industrial unit, and the fire is almost out". "We expect to stay at the site for some time into the evening to ensure there are no remaining hot spots," he added.
He said the fire had spread to neighbouring fields, which crews are working to bring under control. Earlier, cordons had been put in place to protect fire crews as the industrial unit contained a number of cylinders.
Mr Haywood said cordons were put in place to protect fire crews as "the industrial unit contains a number of cylinders". "Firefighters are preparing to open each one to cool down the contents and ensure they are safe," Mr Haywood said.
"There is still a large amount of smoke around the local area and we advise all local residents to keep doors and windows closed," he said. "The cylinders in the building have now been neutralised and are safe."
Incident commander Mark Samuels added: "Had it not been for the quick actions of our crews the fire would have spread more rapidly and affected more of the industrial estate. Our crews are doing a brilliant job."
One person tweeted to say they had heard a "massive bang".One person tweeted to say they had heard a "massive bang".
During the height of the fire, residents were advised to keep doors and windows closed due to the large amount of smoke.
Incident commander Mark Samuels said: "Had it not been for the quick actions of our crews the fire would have spread more rapidly and affected more of the industrial estate."
Essex Police said several businesses and properties are being evacuated on Northwick Road and the surrounding areas.Essex Police said several businesses and properties are being evacuated on Northwick Road and the surrounding areas.
A spokesperson added: "The police helicopter was enlisted to assist Essex County Fire and Rescue Service with thermal imaging.
"Pedestrians and drivers are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes where possible."
Morrisons confirmed its Northwick Road branch had been evacuated - as had other businesses nearby - on the advice of the fire service.Morrisons confirmed its Northwick Road branch had been evacuated - as had other businesses nearby - on the advice of the fire service.
The firm said it was not sure when the store would reopen.The firm said it was not sure when the store would reopen.
In a statement, McDonald's restaurant said: "While our restaurant was not involved in the fire, as a precautionary measure it has been closed."
The fire service said an investigation into the cause of the fire will take place in due course.