Assurance given to South Kessock residents following fire

The Highland Council and NHS Highland have issued an advisory note to 500 households in the South Kessock area of Inverness following a fire at M & H Carriers, Carsegate Road, Merkinch , Inverness on Tuesday (25 August), which has resulted in demolition of the building.
 
Like many other buildings of its type, the premises destroyed by fire may have contained asbestos cement sheeting and the residual dust from the fire may therefore contain asbestos.
 
The note, which was hand delivered to 500 homes in the area, assured residents that the risk of illness from the dust is considered low, even if asbestos is present.
 
William Gilfillan, the Council’s Corporate Manager for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey, wrote: “Where dust or ash is found on hard surfaces inside a house, this should be wiped down with a damp cloth which should then be disposed of. It is also advised that paths and steps outside should be washed down to prevent dust being carried into the house. The weather forecast is for rain and this will also assist in clearing any material outside your home.”

Some residents on Rosehaugh Road were advised to leave their homes after fire broke out because acrid smoke was being blown towards their homes. They were able to return home later.

Merkinch Community Centre was opened for those made temporarily homeless.

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