A section of the "Burnside" industrial complex in "Dartmouth" was closed on Friday after a fire in a scrapyard triggered alerts and warnings about air quality.

"Pat Klein," head of the Halifax Fire District, said a call was received about an external fire outbreak in the scrapyard at Dartmouth Metals around 11:15 a.m.

About 30 firefighters and 10 trucks were still on site until 2 p.m.

Klein says the team is also using a drone with a high-resolution thermal camera to identify the hottest parts of the fire.

The crew did a great job upon arrival to contain and keep it under control. Due to the thick smoke, the emergency alarm system was used around 1:20 p.m. to warn residents about air quality in the area.

The warning advised nearby residents and businesses to close all windows and doors, shut off air exchangers, and stay indoors until air quality improves, which is estimated to be about three to six hours.

"Dartmouth Metals" is a family company dating back to the 1960s, owned by David Gibberson.

Gibberson said, "It happened in the middle of the steel pillar," a large cloud of black smoke could be seen rising from the yard from kilometers away.

Gibberson added, "We will try to find the source and reduce the likelihood of it happening again." Klein said the cause of the fire is unclear, and according to the police, the investigation is ongoing.

Klein said, "The investigation will take some time and we may never find the cause, as it was a large pile of crashed cars."

"Akerley Boulevard" is closed to traffic between "Mosher Drive" and "Windmill Road."

The police ask drivers to use alternative routes to avoid delays, and the Halifax Regional Police say no injuries have been reported due to the fire.

Gibberson apologized for the trouble caused by the fire and said, "This has created a nuisance for the whole city." "It's embarrassing; I will make sure that we do our best here at Dartmouth Metals to ensure that something like this does not happen again."