By Cecilia Nasmith
Northumberland County announces that the fire at the County Material Recovery Facility in Grafton has been extinguished.
Fire crews responded late Friday evening, after fire alarms at the facility triggered a call by the monitoring system. Officials have identified a loose pile of recyclable materials as the site of the fire. While a review is underway to identify potential causes, foul play is not suspected.
The facility was closed at the time the fire was reported, so no injuries were sustained.
County staff have been given the all-clear to enter the building, and initial review indicates minimal damage. As a result, no changes are planned for waste and recycling collection schedules for residents. The county is now addressing plans for any clean-up required, and for ensuring the MRF is fully operational by Sunday afternoon.
The county commends the Alnwick-Haldimand Fire Department for their rapid response, and for their professionalism and skill in effecting a positive outcome.
Thanks also goes out to Northumberland Paramedics and other emergency-services personnel on-site, and to county staff who attended the scene and continue to provide support .
