Residents issued warning as fire tears through Prestons factory, sending chemicals into air

Residents in Sydney’s west have been issued a grim warning as a massive factory blaze sparks fears toxic chemicals are being sent into the air.

Residents in Sydney’s west have been warned not to turn on their airconditioning amid concerns smoke from a factory fire has sent toxic chemicals into the air.

More than 150 firefighters and 40 crews were called to a factory blaze on Hoxton Park Road in Prestons just after 5am.

NSW Police said the factory and nearby businesses were closed at the time but two employees had to be evacuated.

Two workers had to be evacuated. Picture: 7 News

The blaze is still burning. Picture: 7 News

Residents at neighbouring properties were also told to evacuate or stay inside.

The blaze itself is under control but authorities are concerned about the smoke billowing into the air because it’s carrying toxic particles.

It’s believe the fire had been fuelled by chemicals and exploding ethanol barrels inside the building and could burn for hours.

“Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the factory, but we do have some concern about the smoke in the community,” firefighters told reporters on Friday morning.

UPDATE: 1 westbound lane has reopened on Hoxton Park Rd past the site of the building fire. 1 westbound lane is still closed. Traffic has eased, but take care as @FRNSW remain at the scene.

— Live Traffic Sydney (@LiveTrafficSyd) March 18, 2021

“We’re asking the community to close their doors and windows and keep their airconditioners off – and police are currently doorknocking those areas that are affected.”

An exclusion zone has been set up and several streets closed.

A business owner nearby the factory told 2GB’s Ben Fordham “it’s not looking good” and feared the blaze may spread to his store.

“At this point in time and I’m pretty devastated after the year we’ve just had,” he said.

Hoxton Park Road was closed for some time. It has since reopened but motorists are still advised to avoid the area and take extra caution.