Crews extinguish Fredericton landfill fire

Fire crews extinguished the flames at a Fredericton landfill on Monday, but a fire official said crews will stay at the site until they're sure there won't be anyflare-ups.

"We currently don't have any hot spots that we know of. But we are continuing to mull through the piles of rubble that we have right now. It's just a case of overhaul and continue," assistant fire chief Bob Martin told CBC News.

The blaze broke out early Saturday evening at the landfill on Alison Boulevardin the city's south end. It prompted warnings for people living nearby to stay inside to avoid the thick smoke, which officials feared could be toxic.

By Monday, fire crews were focusing their efforts on breaking up the rubble and keeping an eye out for further flames.

"We're still applying water to ensure we don't have any hot spots, and we're going to stay on the scene until we're absolutely sure," Martin said.

He said he would be surprised if investigators discovered the cause of the fire. He said landfill sites can spontaneously combust and smoulder for days or even weeks before bursting into flames.

Should still be careful of smoke, city warns

The city issued a health warning Saturday due to the thick smoke from the fire. It warnedpeople in the area to stay inside, keep doors and windows closed, turn off air conditioners and air-exchange units, and keep pets and farm animals indoors.

Fredericton City Hall lifted the warning Sunday as the fires came under control and the smoke began to clear, but urged some precautions until the smoke had completely cleared.

"People with respiratory ailments should continue to take the proper precautions," said Wayne Knorr, a communications co-ordinator for the city.

"And we're advising others that as they move about their day, that if they do feel a little bit weak from the smoke, to go inside or seek proper medical attention."