Care home close to massive Co Armagh oil tanker blaze moves to reassure residents
A care home in Lurgan has moved to reassure families of residents after a massive oil tanker fire close to their building.
Firefighters were tasked to the junction of the Tandragee Road and Pollock Drive this morning as an oil tanker went on fire.
Large plumes of smoke could be seen widely across the Lurgan area.
The area around Lurgan Hospital is affected and motorists are asked to avoid the area.
It is also close to Aughnacloy House, a care home for mostly elderly patients.
There are no reports at this stage of anyone injured.
A spokesperson for the NI Fire and Rescue Service said it received a 999 call at 11.43am of a fire at Mourneview Avenue, Lurgan.
One appliance from Lurgan Fire Station, one appliance from Banbridge Fire Station and one appliance from Portadown Fire Station are currently in attendance.
The PSNI said: “Road users and members of the public are asked to avoid the Mourneview Avenue area of Lurgan, due to a report of an oil tanker on fire in the area.
"Diversions are in place.”
A spokesperson for MD Healthcare Ltd said: “We would like to reassure all families and loved ones that everyone at Aughnacloy House is safe and well following an oil tanker fire opposite the home.
"All calls to the home's usual telephone number are being diverted to an emergency mobile phone.
"We kindly ask that families only contact the home if absolutely necessary, to allow our staff to focus on supporting our residents and managing the situation.
"There is no access to the home by car at present until the road reopens.
"We apologise for any inconvenience or concern this may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding.
"We will provide further updates as the situation develops and normal services are restored. Thank you for your understanding.”
Sinn Féin Councillor Mary O’Dowd has urged people to avoid the Tandragee Road area in Lurgan due to a fire currently being dealt with by the emergency services.
Cllr O’Dowd said: “I would appeal to everyone to stay away from the area and allow the fire service the space they need to deal with this incident.
"Please avoid the Tandragee Road until the fire service has finished dealing with the incident and it is safe to return.
"My thoughts are with everyone affected, and I sincerely hope everyone is okay.”