Officials said that Tuesday, after a major fire broke out in an aerospace manufacturing facility north of Philadelphia, schools were closed and residents were ordered to shelter in place.
Abington Township Police Department released a social media statement stating that the fire started at SPS Technologies, Jenkintown, around 9:30 pm on Monday. Witnesses reported an explosion inside the warehouse and saw flames. The fire was contained, and all of the employees were located. No injuries were reported.
SPS Technologies describes itself as a global manufacturer, developer, and supplier of aerospace fasteners.
All private and parochial schools in the Abington, Jenkintown, and other districts as well as all public schools were closed on Tuesday.
Officials said that the shelter-in-place order remained in effect until the fire was brought under control. Smoke and particulates were spreading throughout the area. Hazmat crews monitored air quality, and all businesses within 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) of the fire were advised to close until further notice.
Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) warned that due to an early morning fire, service would be suspended on three regional lines. It also noted that this could lead to delays elsewhere in the system.
