Camden, NJ Junkyard Fire Grows to Four Alarms, Officials Say

Camden, NJ Junkyard Fire Grows to Four Alarms, Officials Say \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ A large fire broke out at EMR Metal Recycling in Camden, NJ, around 5 p.m., prompting a four-alarm response. Firefighters are struggling due to limited hydrants, and air quality concerns have been raised. Residents impacted by the smoke can seek shelter at a local hotel or community centers if needed.

Camden Junkyard Fire Quick Looks

• Fire Location: EMR Metal Recycling, 1500 South 6th Street, Camden, NJ
• Fire Status: Four-alarm fire with 15-20 fire companies responding
• Challenges: Limited hydrants requiring water transportation across the city
• Health Concerns: Air quality issues, with advisories to stay indoors
• Smoke Impact: Seen in Camden, Burlington County, and South Philadelphia
• Shelter Available: Hilton Garden Inn offering rooms for affected residents
• Precautionary Measures: Close windows, limit outdoor activity, wear masks

Deep Look

Firefighters in Camden, New Jersey, are working tirelessly to contain a massive junkyard fire that erupted at EMR Metal Recycling on Friday evening. The fire broke out around 5 p.m. at the scrap metal facility located at 1500 South 6th Street and quickly escalated to a four-alarm emergency, requiring the response of 15 to 20 fire companies, according to Camden Fire Department Chief Jesse Flax.

The fire has consumed vehicles, scrap metal, and debris, sending thick, black smoke billowing into the air. Flames have spread across a large pile of materials, making the firefighting efforts even more challenging.

Despite progress being made, crews are struggling due to a lack of fire hydrants in the immediate area. The junkyard is located in an isolated part of the city, which has forced firefighters to transport water from hydrants scattered throughout Camden.

“We’ve got to transport water from hydrants that are all around the city, and that takes a little bit of doing,” Flax explained.

Emergency responders are coordinating closely with the Camden County Office of Emergency Management to manage the situation and prevent further spread.

Air Quality Concerns and Health Risks

With a large fire burning materials such as metal, rubber, and plastic, hazardous smoke has spread throughout Camden and beyond. Local officials have begun conducting air quality tests to determine the severity of the situation and have issued warnings to residents.

David McIntosh, a worker at Camden’s Adventure Aquarium, emphasized the potential health risks:

“It’s detrimental. If you have kids with asthma or elderly family members, I would personally keep my windows shut or even leave the area for now.”

Residents in Camden, Burlington County, and even South Philadelphia have reported seeing thick smoke from the fire. While officials have assured the public that the situation is being monitored, they strongly encourage individuals experiencing breathing difficulties, eye irritation, or other symptoms to seek medical attention.

Emergency Shelter and Assistance for Residents

Although no injuries have been reported, Camden officials have set up temporary shelter options for residents affected by the smoke.

• Those experiencing discomfort from the poor air quality can seek shelter at the Hilton Garden Inn, located at 1 Penn Street in Camden.
• Residents must show identification to receive a free room while space is available.
• If additional accommodations are needed, Camden city officials are prepared to open local community centers for temporary housing.

“We’ve gotten this fire periodically throughout the years,” Chief Flax noted. “We just have to make sure we’re monitoring downwind of the incident.”

Smoke Spreading to Philadelphia and Surrounding Areas

The effects of the fire have extended beyond Camden, with reports confirming smoke visible across South Philadelphia and even parts of Burlington County, NJ.

The Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management (OEM) issued an alert stating that smoke may be present throughout the city and urged residents to limit unnecessary exposure.

Health officials in Philadelphia also released precautionary guidelines for residents to protect themselves from poor air quality:

✅ Stay indoors as much as possible
✅ Limit outdoor activity, especially for children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions
✅ Close all windows and doors to prevent smoke from entering homes
✅ Use fans or air purifiers to improve indoor air circulation
✅ Wear a mask if available, particularly if you must go outside

Fire Response and Ongoing Monitoring

As of Friday night, firefighters remain at the scene battling the flames. The response has been extensive, involving multiple fire companies working in rotation to control the situation. Due to the nature of the materials burning, it is unclear how long it will take to fully extinguish the fire.

Officials have reassured the public that air quality monitoring will continue in the coming days. Additional updates will be provided as the fire response progresses.

Residents in Camden and surrounding areas are encouraged to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and seek medical help if needed.

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