Smoke warning for Gidgegannup locals after shipping container with ‘powder-coated bike racks’ catches fire

Residents in Perth’s north east have been warned of potentially dangerous smoke after a shipping container went up in flames.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services issued an advice warning after reports of a structure fire near the intersection of Lillie Road and Tilden Drive, Gidgegannup, on Thursday afternoon.

The blaze was first reported about 12pm, and was contained and controlled by 3.30pm.

A DFES spokesperson said the shipping container contained “powder-coated bike racks”, cardboard and wooden pallets.

Firefighters accessed the inside of the container by cutting its side and entering through its doors.

“The fire is resulting in potentially dangerous smoke being blown in a southerly direction,” a DFES spokesperson said.

“There is a lot of smoke in the area.

“As a precautionary measure, people in the area should remain inside, out of the smoke or fumes, with doors and windows closed.

“People should stay away from the area.”

The cause of the blaze is unknown.

Motorists are asked to avoid the area, reduce speed and drive carefully.