Crews continue to monitor SPS Technologies in Jenkintown. Photo by James Short.
Abington Township held a press conference on Wednesday morning to announce the Shelter-in-Place and evacuation recommendations due to air quality concerns were lifted for those homes and businesses in the area affected, effective at 11 a.m.
"This decision was made in consultation with federal, state, county and local officials including the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and HAZMAT teams," the township said.
Residents in the Evacuation zone may return to their homes and residents and businesses in the Shelter-in-Place zone may resume normal activities.
According to the township, the EPA and DEP will continue to monitor air and water conditions to ensure public safety. No hazards have been detected in the area surrounding the fire and the area has been deemed safe. If conditions change, the public will be notified immediately of protective actions to be taken.
Residents who need assistance returning to their homes may call 610-635-4300.
The significant fire and explosion that occurred at SPS Technologies, 301 Highland Ave., prompted local authorities to issue a shelter-in-place order Tuesday for residents within a one-mile radius due to concerns about air quality and potential health risks. This order affected approximately 250 homes, primarily in the neighboring Jenkintown area. A voluntary evacuation order also was placed Tuesday.
Review Willow Grove's Now full coverage of the events, which began as initial calls were received by county dispatch around 9:41 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 17.
