Evacuation Orders Lifted After Major Fire at SPS Technologies in Abington Township

Authorities in Abington Township, Pennsylvania, have lifted evacuation orders following a large industrial fire at SPS Technologies. Firefighters continue to work tirelessly to extinguish the blaze, which has been burning since Monday night at the company’s 500,000-square-foot facility on Highland Avenue.

No Injuries Reported, Firefighters Work Around the Clock

The fire started around 9:30 p.m. on Monday and quickly escalated to a four-alarm response by 1 a.m. Nearly 70 fire companies, including mostly volunteer units, responded to the scene throughout the night. Fortunately, all 60 employees inside the building at the time were able to evacuate safely, and no injuries have been reported, either among the workers or first responders.

The fire, which involved a chemical process at the facility, proved difficult for firefighters to control, especially with the icy conditions at the site. The flames had mostly been contained by Tuesday morning, but by later in the day, officials noted a flare-up that sent thick black smoke billowing from the building. Despite the challenges, firefighters have made steady progress, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.

Temporary Shelter and Evacuation Zones

As a precaution, Abington Township had issued evacuation orders for residents and businesses within a one-mile radius of the site. This affected around 250 homes in the area. The Cheltenham High School auditorium had been set up as a shelter for those displaced, and the American Red Cross provided essential services to evacuees. The township urged residents to bring necessary items, including medications, medical devices, and pet supplies.

While the evacuation shelter has now been closed, authorities have encouraged those in the evacuation zone to return to their homes. Those who were unable to evacuate independently were offered transportation to the shelter. The Red Cross continues to provide support for those affected by the incident.

Air and Water Quality Monitoring

The fire prompted concerns over air and water quality, and authorities have been conducting tests to ensure public safety. Hazmat teams and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection have been on the ground, with results from air quality tests so far indicating no hazardous levels of contamination. However, officials are continuing to monitor the situation, especially as winds could carry smoke to nearby neighborhoods, including Fox Chase in Philadelphia.

While there have been no confirmed hazardous substances identified in the air, officials are taking extra precautions to monitor water runoff in the area. These efforts aim to ensure the safety of residents and workers who live and operate near the site.

Impact on Schools and SEPTA Services

In the wake of the fire, several schools in the area closed for a second consecutive day. The Abington, Jenkintown, and Cheltenham School Districts all announced closures for Wednesday, as did Manor College. The fire also disrupted SEPTA services, with certain Regional Rail lines suspended or rerouted. However, as of Wednesday morning, SEPTA had resumed operations on most lines, though some stations, including Jenkintown-Wyncote, remained closed.

What Is SPS Technologies?

SPS Technologies, a key supplier for the aerospace and military industries, has been operating in the area since 1903. The company specializes in manufacturing metal fasteners and fittings, processes that can involve hazardous chemicals. Fire officials focused their efforts on containing the fire away from those chemicals to prevent further complications.

Residents Share Their Experience

Many residents living near the SPS Technologies facility shared their experiences of the fire. Charles Brown, who was forced to evacuate his home, described how the explosion from the fire shook his house. “It was ridiculous, it shook the house so bad,” Brown said. Other residents, like Jeanne Schmolze, were concerned about the air quality and waited anxiously for updates on the situation.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Efforts

While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, police have stated that they do not suspect foul play. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is assisting with the investigation, and the township’s emergency management coordinator, Tom McAneney, emphasized that a full investigation will not begin until the fire is completely extinguished.

For now, authorities are urging people to stay away from the area to allow firefighters and emergency workers to continue their efforts. Abington Township police have emphasized the importance of following evacuation and shelter-in-place orders to ensure everyone’s safety.

As the situation evolves, residents can expect frequent updates regarding air quality, water testing, and any changes in the ongoing fire response. Authorities remain committed to addressing the crisis and ensuring the safety of all affected.

For now, the community continues to work together, supporting each other in the aftermath of the fire.