Warnings Over Asbestos Debris In The UK -- MesoLink.org -- 02-23-06

Officials have issued warnings to locals of a UK county after asbestos debris has been found in the area. It has been confirmed that the debris containing asbestos stemmed from a fire at a large DIY warehouse near Burton on Tuesday. Fragments of asbestos laden debris have been found in parts of South Derbyshire, and locals of the area have been warned not to touch the debris.

Newhall and Bretby on the Hill are two of the areas in which environmental officers have fund some of the debris from the raging fire at the B&Q warehouse last week. Officials have asked that anyone that comes across any of the debris or if they are unsure should contact the district council for the area.

A spokesperson for the local council stated: "Members of the public should not pick up any of the debris, which could be black or white, and make sure children know not to touch the material."

Asbestos is a carcinogenic substance that can cause a range of ill health effects including a malignant cancer known as mesothelioma. Long term or prolonged exposure to airborne asbestos fibers are known to increase the chances of this type of health problem.