The Pockwood Pond dumpsite will not be accepting garbage until further notice following an early morning large-scale fire on Saturday, December 9.
According to the Department of Waste Management, the fire occurred at approximately 4:00 a.m. at the dumpsite tipping area, and as a result, only persons with the ability to reach the top of the dump site’s hill will be allowed to access the area to dispose of garbage.
The department also advised residents that while the officials continue to extinguish the flames, residents should take the necessary health precautions and avoid the smoke where possible.
New protocols resulted in a quick response
As it pertains to the fire, the department revealed that the new protocols in place resulted in swift action taken to extinguish the flames, with the Fire and Rescue Service immediately notified.
Director of Waste Management Marcus Solomon explained what he believes to be the origin of the fire. He reported that it quickly extended to the BVI Electricity Corporation’s plant, which is located in close proximity to the landfill.
“The fire was likely caused by older garbage heat which came into contact with combustibles. The combustion of the materials could be heard on the site and spread to the entire garbage load, which fueled the quick acceleration of the fire,” Solomon stated.
He further explained that because the incinerator is currently inoperable, his department is having issues with processing the waste promptly, which is contributing to garbage staying in the tipping area longer than desirable.
“We are working on waste management strategies to improve the way we process our waste, but we still need assistance from the community to help avert future occurrences,” he added.
Director Solomon also urged the public to play their part as his department continue to work on the needed equipment to improve the current infrastructure of the dumpsite.
“We are pleading with the community to reduce, repurpose, and reuse to assist with decreasing waste generation. We also want them to stop putting hazardous and flammable materials into the waste stream,” Solomon stated.