DATE: September 26, 2025

SPS FIRE INVESTIGATION FINDINGS

Abington, PA - On Monday, February 17^th, 2025, the Abington Township Fire Department responded, along with mutual aid agencies, to a reported fire with explosions at the SPS Technologies manufacturing facility located at 301 Highland Avenue, Jenkintown, PA 19046, within Abington Township. The size and complexity of the fire elevated the response to a 4+ alarm fire, with responding agencies from throughout Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware, Chester, and Lehigh counties. The fire was deemed extinguished on Saturday, February 22^nd, 2025, at 3:53 PM after 114 hours of dedicated efforts by all responders. Notably, there was not a single injury to any occupant or first responder.

The Abington Township Fire Marshal’s Office is the primary investigation agency for all fires within Abington Township. Due to the complexity of the incident, investigation assistance was requested of numerous area Fire Marshals, as well as support from the Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal’s Unit and the United States Department of Justice Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Fire investigations are uniquely difficult due to the conditions of the scene and the availability of potential evidence to recreate the incident. The scope of the Public Sector Fire Investigator (Fire Marshal) is to establish the area and point of origin, determine the cause of the fire, and identify any indications of arson for potential prosecution. Our investigations are conducted in accordance with NFPA 921: Guide for Fire and Explosion Investigations, which is the industry standard guide of how to determine a fire origin and cause.

The investigation has determined the area of the compressed air system infrastructure within the building as the area of origin for this incident. The investigation was unable to determine the specific failure in the system. In accordance with NFPA 921, when multiple hypotheses cannot be eliminated, a fire is to be deemed undetermined. Accordingly, due to numerous potential hypotheses as to what failed within the compressed air system infrastructure remaining, the fire cause has been deemed Undetermined. However, we are able to classify this fire as Accidental, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives classification system, based off of the results of the investigation. 

As a result of the extensive investigative efforts by the team on scene, at this time the Fire Marshal can state:

• There was what appears to be a failure of the compressed air system infrastructure within the building, resulting in numerous explosions and fires throughout.
• There is no indication of an intentionally set fire within the structure.
• There is no indication of any negligence/malicious intent on behalf of SPS Technologies that led to this fire.

Thank you to all responding agencies and participants who contributed to the investigative efforts of the Abington Township Fire Marshal’s Office including SPS Technologies, whose full cooperation and assistance was imperative to a thorough investigation.

For more information and available updates, please visit www.abingtonpa.gov/spsupdates.

CONTACT
Chris Platz, NAFI CFEI, NAFI CVFI, PA UCC BCO
Fire Marshal
Abington Township
cplatz@abingtonpa.gov

Click here to view the press release. 

• September 26, 2025: Click here to view 
• April 17, 2025: As part of SPS Technologies’ Reclamation Process, they are removing tanks that stored Nitrogen and Argon.  As part of the process to remove the tanks, a SPS vendor will release the remaining, residual gas in each tank, which may appear similar to steam near the facility.  In addition to being a part of certain manufacturing processes, Nitrogen and Argon are common elements in the atmosphere.  Nitrogen makes up about 78% of Earth’s atmosphere and Argon is the third most abundant gas (1%) in Earth’s atmosphere, after oxygen (21%).  The release will occur between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. on Friday, April 18, 2025. The Abington Township Fire Marshal will be on scene monitoring the activities.  
• April 4, 2025: The Abington Township Fire Marshal has been notified of a planned propane tank flare off occurring at SPS Technologies on Monday, April 7th, 2025, from approximately 10am-2pm. 

  UPDATE: The flare off will continue until approximately 10 pm, on Monday, April 7th, 2025. 

  A Flare Off is a controlled burning of high vapor pressure liquid or compressed gas in order to reduce or control the pressure and/or dispose of the product. You may expect to a see a flame in a remote area on the property from a piece of equipment designed for this purpose. You may also hear loud noises during this operation as well. This is a normal operation that propane companies conduct regularly and should not be a cause for concern. 

  The reason for this operation is the removal of an existing onsite propane tank, which is not inside the structure, but located approximately 75 feet from the building. The operation is being conducted by a licensed propane supply company in coordination with the Abington Township Fire Marshal.
• March 27, 2025: SPS Fire Scam Warning - Click here to view.  
• March 25, 2025: At 9:50 PM on Monday, March 24, 2025, Abington Township Fire Department and mutual aid agencies responded to a report of smoke and a chemical odor coming from the SPS Technologies building located at 301 Highland Avenue. According to standard procedures, reports of smoke in a building are dispatched as a building fire. As such fire personnel arrived on site and investigated the report. No issues were found on the property. The report of smoke was attributed to dense fog in the area and the chemical odor was attributed to the residual post-fire smell from the building. There was no indication of any chemical hazards present. 
• February 26, 2025, at 4:15 PM (updated on 2/28 at 9:50 AM): Click here to view.  
• February 22, 2025, at 4 PM: Click here to view.  
• February 20, 2025, at 5 PM: Click here to view.  
• February 20, 2025, at 9:30 AM: Click here to view. 
• February 19, 2025, at 6:30 PM (updated at 7:25 PM): Click here to view.  
• February 19, 2025, at 11 AM: Click here to view.  
• February 19, 2025, at 8:30 AM: Click here to view.  
• February 18, 2025, at 8 PM: Click here to view. 
• February 18, 2025, at 2:15 PM (updated at 3:47 PM): Click here to view. 
• February 18, 2025, at 10 AM: Click here to view. 
• February 17, 2025: Click here to view. 

SPS will be holding an informational meeting for the community on Thursday, September 25, 2025, from 7 - 9 PM to share their plans to build a state-of-the-art, aerospace fasteners facility on Highland Avenue. The meeting is open to the public and will be held at the Abington Middle School Little Theater, located at 2056 Susquehanna Road. Visit SPS's webpage for more information. 

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) held a webinar on Tuesday, May 20, to provide a status update on the SPS Technologies fire. Click here to watch the recording. 

For more information on the SPS Technologies fire, please visit DEP’s SPS Technologies Fire website page.

• February 20, 2025, at 12 PM: Click here to view.  
  • SPS Public Statement: Click here to read.
• February 19, 2025, at 10 AM: Click here to view.  
• February 18, 2025, at 4 PM: Click here to view.
• February 18, 2025, at 7 AM: Click here to view.

PA DEP's air and water monitoring information can be found at www.dep.pa.gov/SPStechnologies. 

US EPA's air monitoring information can be found by clicking here. 

SPS's air and water monitoring information can be found at https://www.spsupdates.com/monitoring/.

As stated on SPS's website, "SPS is concluding its Reclamation phase, in which products (finished, in-process, and raw materials) and equipment were removed.  On or after May 19th, SPS will begin the Demolition phase. An overview of the demolition and air monitoring plans can be found here. If you have questions or concerns, please use the contact section to reach out."

Click here for an overview of the demolition and air monitoring plans. 

8/14/25 Update: Highland Avenue will be intermittently closed during the week of August 18 between the hours of 7 AM and 5 PM, rather than the originally planned two-week full closure. During this time, the demolition contractor will safely remove the buildings and structures along the street. SPS’s contractor will work to complete the project as efficiently as possible to minimize disruptions.

4/23/25 Update: On Monday, April 28, 2025, Highland Avenue will reopen to traffic between Mt Carmel Ave. and Wharton Rd. From 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., SPS Technologies will employ flaggers when necessary to allow movement of materials across Highland Avenue. Traffic is expected to move normally from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. For your safety, please remain outside the fenced area surrounding the property. Only authorized people should try to access the property/building. We appreciate your patience and understanding.   

Highland Avenue is closed between Glenside Avenue and Wharton Road until further notice. Kenmore Avenue is closed between Stewart Road and Highland Avenue. The shopping center is open to local traffic only using Wharton Road. Please be aware that the 2000 block of Kenmore Avenue is accessible to residents only. Mount Carmel Avenue is closed at Highland Avenue. We will notify residents if there are any changes to this situation.

SPS Technologies has established a community hotline for questions, comments or concerns. Residents can call 215-572-3326 or email contactSPS@pccairframe.com. 

Click here to download a PDF version of the SPS flyer. 

If you have been displaced due to the fire, and are in need of immediate food or shelter, or mental health support services, please contact Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services Office of Public Health Community Connections at 610-278-3522 or visit here. 

Per the DEP's website, residents with environmental health related questions can contact the PA Department of Health (PA DOH), where they will be evaluated and referred to an appropriate program area for potential investigation and follow-up.

• Complete the Environmental Health Concern Form
• Phone: 717-787-3350
• Contact Environmental Health

Post-fire cleanup information and other fire safety resources can be found on the American Red Cross website. 

Emergencies and disasters strike quickly and often without warning. They can disrupt our lives, force us to leave our homes, or even confine us for days without essential services such as electricity, phones, or water. How ready are you and your family?

One thing you can do to prepare is register for the Ready Montco notification system.

• Receive emergency, community, weather and crime notifications
• User’s choose their preferred delivery methods -  text message, email, smartphone app and/or voice call to your mobile devices and land line phone
• Messages can be targeted by geographical area (such as residents living in flood prone areas or on snow emergency routes) or a person’s special needs.

Please take a minute to register yourself and family members for this important service at: www.readymontco.org.

Visit our Ready Montco webpage for more information. 

The Township is working on compiling a list of frequently asked questions and coordinating responses. We will be updating this list throughout the coming days. 

Q: What do I do if I smell smoke in my home?
A: If you smell smoke and you believe it is related to the SPS fire, call SPS’s hotline at 215-572-3326. If you smell and/or see smoke and you think it’s a fire, call 911.

Q: Who should I contact if I have fire debris on my property?
A: Residents should contact SPS at ContactSPS@pccairframe.com. 

Q: How do I clean up after a fire?
A: Post-fire cleanup information and other fire safety resources can be found on the American Red Cross website. 

Q: Is the air quality safe?
A: Based on the data collected to date by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and HazMAT teams, the monitoring equipment has not detected levels of contaminants of public concern. Additional air monitoring equipment has been placed on site and around the area by third-party environmental consultants as of February 19, 2025. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to monitor air quality.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has established a website that has additional information and can be viewed by clicking here. SPS has created monitoring page for air, water and other testing they are performing. It can be viewed by clicking here. 

Q: What was and is being monitored in the air? 
A: Per the DEP website, the air monitoring was initially conducted for: Particulate matter (PM 10, 4, 2.5) Hydrogen Cyanide, Chlorine, Volatile Organic Compounds, Hydrogen Sulfide and Sulfuric Acid.

On March 8, SPS created a monitoring page for their testing. What they are testing for and results can be found on the page. To view SPS's monitoring page, click here. 

Q: Will the EPA’s air monitoring data be made available?
A: The EPA is committed to transparency and providing timely information to the public. Air monitoring data collected during the week of February 17, 2025 can be viewed in the EPA Air Monitoring Report. 

Q: How long will the EPA monitor air quality near the site?
A: EPA’s air monitoring units were removed on February 24, 2025. EPA air monitoring was replaced by the CTEH plan (contractor to SPS). CTEH has the same monitoring capabilities and similar meters and have established additional monitoring locations around the site compared to the two (2) locations established by EPA during initial response. We understand weather and wind are changing and current testing is adapting to those conditions as monitoring continues. On the week of March 10, SPS transitioned air monitoring from Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health (CTEH) to TRC Environmental Corporation (TRC).

Q: Through the DEP’s website we know that the EPA has carried out air monitoring in response to the fire. Can you provide more information?
A: US EPA Region 3 (EPA) is using a wireless remote monitoring system to collect data for common air contaminants, some which are often associated with combustion, including respirable particulate matter and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other chemicals known to be stored at the site.

Generally, the monitoring determines whether air quality meets the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) established by the EPA. To date, air monitoring has not detected respirable dust or any chemicals at levels of concern in the air outside of the facility. EPA will continue monitoring the situation alongside SPS Technologies, PADEP, and supporting agencies.

Q: How can the community organize to hire a firm independent from SPS, EPA, or DEP for in-home air quality testing? Can the Township hire an independent contractor as well to do some testing?
A: Community members interested in hiring an independent firm to perform in-home air quality testing is at their discretion.  

SPS Technologies is performing air and water quality monitoring and is responsible to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure they are meeting all regulations and requirements. 

Abington Township is working with the regulatory agencies to ensure compliance and transparency.  

Q:  What steps were taken at the onset of the incident to monitor air quality?
A: Montgomery County Hazardous Materials Response Team was dispatched at 10:05 PM on Monday, February 17th. Shortly after arrival on scene, the Montgomery County HazMat Team initiated air monitoring operations on the incident scene at SPS Technologies. This decision was made for two reasons: first, to ensure that the air was safe to breathe for firefighters and other emergency response personnel and second, to begin an initial assessment of any potential impacts to the surrounding community. Air monitoring around the incident scene by HazMat personnel continued until 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19th, when the responsibility was turned over to a third-party environmental consultant. 

In addition, after evaluating wind direction and speed, as well as other weather conditions, the HazMat Team in coordination with other responding agencies strategically selected 11 locations downwind in Jenkintown Borough to add to the air monitoring plan. At around 5:20 a.m. on Tuesday, February 18th, monitoring at these locations began, and continued hourly until 6:00 p.m. that evening when US EPA air monitoring equipment was in place. 

While the monitoring equipment utilized by the Montgomery County HazMat Team does not automatically report readings to central databases like those used by state and federal environmental response agencies, all communications from air monitoring teams to Incident Command noted that all readings taken were well within the thresholds for safe breathing air. 

Q: Is public drinking water safe to drink?
A: Yes. Aqua, Pennsylvania, the public drinking water provider in Abington, Jenkintown and Cheltenham has provided the following statement regarding drinking water:

"Aqua Pennsylvania continues to monitor the situation following the fire at SPS Technologies in Jenkintown, Montgomery County. All Aqua Pennsylvania customers in Abington and Cheltenham Townships and Jenkintown Borough can be assured their water is safe to drink. Continued tests have shown our drinking water quality meets all standards. However, we understand that some of you may still have concerns, and we take those concerns seriously. So, we want to take this time to address three concerns that have come up since last week’s fire.  

First, the waterways impacted by the firefighting efforts are not used by Aqua to provide drinking water to our neighbors in Abington and Cheltenham Townships and Jenkintown Borough. Your water comes from a source several miles away from the fire scene. No firefighting runoff entered your source water. 

Second, some customers may have noticed their water appears slightly cloudy. The pipes in the streets that deliver drinking water to your homes are the same pipes that service the fire hydrants used to battle the warehouse fire. The prolonged, intense movement of water in the pipes can lead to cloudiness in the drinking water, usually from entrained air. Again, please know, your water is safe to drink.  

Finally, you may have noticed your drinking water has a slightly salty taste. This is not related to the fire. This change is largely attributed to the runoff of road salts used on roadways, parking lots, and other treated surfaces in response to recent winter storms and icing conditions. Road salts are typically made up of a combination of sodium, chloride and calcium, all of which are naturally occurring and can be found in drinking water on any given day. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) have secondary standard for chloride, however secondary standards are not considered to have any public health risks. The issue is further exacerbated from low stream flow from the persistent drought which has the effect of limiting dilution of the chloride concentrations. 

Aqua continues to collect water samples and perform tests to ensure safe, reliable drinking water for you and your family.  

If you have any questions about water quality at your home or business, please call 877.987.2782."

The DEP water sampling on February 18, 2025, of the Tookany Creek, did detect low levels of chemicals of concern in the Tookany Creek. However, there are no drinking water intakes from Tookany Creek downstream of the fire. This finding does not impact drinking water. PA DEP re-sampled the Tookany Creek on February 19, 2025. Results can be found on DEP's website. 

Q: When will the results of the air and water testing be made public so the community can review them? 
A: DEP's water testing results are available on the DEP’s website at www.dep.pa.gov/SPSTechnologies. The EPA's air quality testing can be found in their EPA Air Monitoring Report. SPS's air and water monitoring results can be found by visiting their monitoring webpage. 

Q: Will I experience any symptoms if exposed to fire smoke? Do I need to seek medical care?
A: Local residents may experience general irritation in their eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory system. Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services' Office of Public Health have advised that these symptoms are all consistent with exposure to structure fire smoke and should improve once the smoke and particulate matter have dissipated. If symptoms persist or are severe, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency such as chest pain or difficulty breathing, call 9-1-1.

Q: Is it safe to go outside?
A: Now that the shelter-in-place recommendation has been lifted, it is safe to go outside and resume normal activities. Residents will be notified if any additional protective action recommendations are issued.

Q: Do you know what chemicals were present at SPS at the time of the fire? 
A: We cannot confirm which chemicals were present during the fire. SPS Technologies is investigating this. Please refer to their website at www.spsupdates.com for more information.  SPS has prepared a fact sheet with information about chemicals used in their manufacturing process. 

Q: Which chemicals were actively in use at the time of the explosion? 
A: SPS Technologies is investigating this. Please refer to their website www.spsupdates.com for more information. 

Q: Has the de-inventory of chemicals stored in the portion of the building that was untouched by the fire been compeleted?
A: Yes. It was completed on February 21, 2025, at 12 PM. 

Q: How do I stay informed on what’s happening on-site at SPS?
A: SPS will be regularly updating their website at www.spsupdates.com with information. 

Q: Once we have rain, what happens when debris is washed away? Are flat roofs more of a concern in this situation?
A: SPS Technologies environmental contractors are working to retrieve the debris they have been notified of prior to any rain event. If someone has a debris on their roof or debris is discovered after a rain event, they should call 9-1-1 to report it so that the environmental contractor can coordinate a pick- up.  

Q: Is there information on the contents of the ash or debris?
A: SPS Technologies' environmental contractor is testing the debris. Please visit their website for more information at www.spsupdates.com. 

Q: Could you clarify the guidelines for handling debris in yards? Is it safe to clean up small pieces, or should authorities be contacted? This is particularly important as this is a community with many children who play outside.
A: Residents are asked to call 9-1-1 so that the collection of debris can be documented as part of the investigation. SPS Technologies has contractors who will collect the debris.  

Q: What measures are being taken to ensure everything is safe?
A: We are continuing to work with the DEP and EPA to make sure the area directly around the site is continuously monitored throughout the duration of the recovery and remediation.   

Q: How did the fire start? 
A: The incident is under investigation at this time. The investigation is being led by the Abington Township Fire Marshal’s Office (FMO) with support from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), as well as numerous Fire Marshal’s from local municipalities. Calling in assistance from outside entities is a routine procedure for the Abington FMO. Our teams are working collaboratively to determine the origin and cause of the SPS incident.

The investigation will take an extended period of time due to temperatures which have created a large quantity of ice, size of the structure, and complexity of the scene.

Fire investigations follow a scientific process to determine origin and cause. The process includes collecting and analyzing data, as well as developing and evaluating hypotheses. Fire investigations can be one of the most difficult types of incidents to investigate as much of our data has been burned or damaged by fire. Crews operating on the scene are both certified and experienced in fire investigations, and hope to determine the origin and cause in the near future.

Q: Is the DEP still on-site?
A: According to DEP's February 25 Press Release, "DEP personnel have been on-site every day since the fire began to monitor water quality, oversee emergency response efforts, and assist firefighters as needed. Sampling results by DEP show no concern for drinking water safety from the fire, and the department is working closely with SPS on the site's cleanup," said DEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley. "Moving forward, DEP will conduct inspections of storage tanks, ensure proper disposal of debris, and continue collaborating with SPS on the site's long-term plans.” Click here to view the full press release. 

Q: What is being done with water on the site?
A: According to DEP's February 25 Press Release, "DEP Emergency Response Team personnel remain on site. SPS is actively pumping water used to put out the fire into holding tanks to prevent any material from entering Tookany Creek. The wastewater treatment facility on site is still operational and unaffected by the fire, and will be utilized to treat the fire water before it is sent to PWD for disposal. There remain no concerns for air quality or drinking water." Click here to view the full press release. 

Q: I have debris on my property and have notified authorities, but no one has come to collect it yet. What should I do?
A: According to SPS's website, they continue to work on residential cleanup and will be visiting any homes who contacted authorities about debris on their property. To view SPS's update, visit www.spsupdates.com. If you have debris on your property but have not yet contacted authorities, please call 9-1-1 to report it. 

Q: What chemicals are used in the manufacturing process at SPS? 
A: SPS has released an overview of the chemicals used in their manufacturing process. Click here to view.

Q: Was firefighting foam used to extinguish the fire?
A: No firefighting foam was used in the fire response. 

Q: How often are air and water quality tests conducted? 
A: The air monitoring is continuous, with readings approximately 15 minutes apart.  The water monitoring is daily.

Q: Where can I find information regarding ongoing air and water monitoring?
A: SPS has created a monitoring webpage with subpages about air and water monitoring information and results. Click here to visit the SPS monitoring webpage. 

Q: I am concerned I have debris on my roof and in my gutters. Who should I contact?
A: If you have debris in your yard or would like to be added to SPS's list for roof and gutter inspection/cleaning, please submit a request with your contact information and address through their Contact section per there webpage. 

Q: Will soil sampling be done around the site?
A: Yes. DEP plans to sample several properties, including parks, schools, and areas within the fire excavation area the week of March 17^th to determine if there is soil contamination present as a result of the fire that occurred at the SPS Technologies facility. DEP will be sampling the soil for a variety of chemicals including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), cyanide, metals, and asbestos.  The results of the sampling should be available in a month, and will be posted to their webpage, www.dep.pa.gov/SPStechnologies.

On Friday, 3/14/2025, DEP personnel are overseeing soil sampling being conducted by contractors on behalf of SPS on Jenkintown School District Properties, including the Abington Friends School. On Monday, 3/17/2025, DEP will collect its own soil sampling on the Jenkintown School District properties. Future sampling is being planned by the Department pending permissions from local stakeholders.

Q: Do I need to change my HVAC filter?  Do I need to purchase and use an indoor air filtration unit?
A: It is always a good idea to change an HVAC filter regularly. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for routine changing of air filters and recommendations for changing your air filter following an unusual event that may affect outdoor air quality. Purchasing an indoor air filtration (or purifier) system is a personal choice and can assist with improving indoor air quality in general. Consider what is right for you and your family based on your preferences and health conditions. Device options to consider include room size, fan speed and use of a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter.

Q: Is any of my food or medicine affected by potential contamination?
A: Any food or medicine inside the home should not be affected by the event and should be safe to consume. Any food left outside, including fruits or vegetables grown in gardens, should be cleansed thoroughly before consuming or being discarded.

Q: Do I need to have my pets undergo any specific tests at the veterinarian?
A: There are no specific tests recommended but monitor their health for any apparent symptoms from the event. If unusual symptoms are noted, consult your veterinary provider. Symptoms may include coughing, gagging, difficulty breathing such as open-mouth breathing or increased nose when breathing, eye irritation or excessive watering, inflammation of throat or mouth, nasal discharge, asthma-like symptoms, increased breathing rate, fatigue, disorientation or reduced appetite or thirst.

Q: Is it safe to clean up soot on my property and outside furniture and, if so, what precautions should I take?  
A: Use universal precautions if you see soot or ash on your property or outdoor possessions and choose to clean it yourself. These include wearing gloves, outdoor work clothes and dust mask.  Remove and clean shoes before entering the home.  Launder all clothes after conducting the work. For further information review the Red Cross guidance on Cleaning Up After A Fire.

Q: What tests should I ask my general physician to provide me with to ensure my health was not affected?
A: Consult with your Primary Care Provider about what tests he/she recommends for you based on your risks and potential exposures. Be prepared to share a summary of the incident and your concerns (for example, existing health conditions, proximity to the incident, and direct exposures). 

Q: Where has soil sampling been conducted?
A: On March 14, 15, 17 and 18, 2025, DEP personnel provided oversight of soil sampling conducted by contractors on behalf of SPS at locations in the vicinity of the SPS Facility. The locations included the Abington Friends School, Jenkintown Elementary School, Wall Park, Hallowell Park, Cedar St Moretti-Park, Jenkintown Town Square, and various residential properties. 

On March 18, 2025, DEP collected its own soil samples from residential, park, and school properties.  The results of the sampling should be available in a month and will be posted to their webpage. 

Q: I have received phone calls and text messages from unknown numbers asking for donations and/or if I need assistance. How do I know if they are legit or a scam?
A: The Abington Township Fire Marshal’s Office has become aware of individuals potentially attempting to scam the community surrounding SPS, targeting those who may be vulnerable, distressed, or concerned after the recent fire. To help you best respond appropriately to these potential negative actors, in this situation and all disaster events, the Fire Marshal would like to remind the community of how to best protect yourself from getting scammed, in relation to this incident and all emergency situations. Click here to learn more. 

Q: Why is Highland Avenue closed, and when is it expected to reopen?
A: As of Monday, April 28, 2025, Highland Avenue is open. 

Q: Have soil sample results been posted yet?
A: SPS has posted results for Jenkintown Schools, Abington Friends School, Wall Park, and the Cheese Playground. To view the report, please visit https://www.spsupdates.com/schools-testing-results/. On May 19, SPS posted results for community and residential sites. To view the report, please click here. 

DEP collected its own soil samples from residential, park, and school properties. To view the results, visit https://www.dep.pa.gov/SPSTechnologies.  

Q: The data shows slightly elevated levels of arsenic at Jenkintown School District's and Abington Friends School's properties. Should we be concerned?
A: Based off initial feedback from SPS's environmental consultants, the PA DEP, and PA DOH, we have learned it is not uncommon to find elevated arsenic levels in our area due to natural geological processes and human industrial activity. DEP received SPS’s results for Abington Friends School and Jenkintown Elementary School on April 15, 2025, and will review the results of the SPS testing, along with Montgomery County Office of Public Health (MCOPH) and Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH)  to determine if any further steps are required to ensure the safety of the broader community.

• To view an arsenic fact sheet, click here.  

Q: Are there any precautions we should take while testing results are forthcoming?
A: Community members are encouraged to follow healthy habits for outdoor play and activities, such as:

• Wash your hands. Wash your hands with soap and water after playing or working outside
• Keep dirt at the door. Take off/wipe shoes or dirty clothing to minimize soil coming into your home or workplace. Mop any tracked dirt on floors.
• Cover bare soil. To minimize exposure to soil while playing outdoors, ensure grass, sod, or mulch is planted or placed in play areas.
• Pet care.  Pet owners should also consider precautionary measures such as wiping paws before entering your home and keeping pets from eating off the soil surfaces. 

Q: When will demolition of the building begin?
A: According to SPS's website, "SPS is concluding its Reclamation phase, in which products (finished, in-process, and raw materials) and equipment were removed.  On or after May 19th, SPS will begin the Demolition phase. An overview of the demolition and air monitoring plans can be found here. If you have questions or concerns, please use the contact section to reach out."

Q: The DEP held a webinar on May 20, 2025, to provide an update on the fire. Has a recording been posted online?
A: Yes, the recording can be found on DEP's website at https://www.dep.pa.gov/SPSTechnologies. 

Q: How can I get my soil tested?
A: The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) will be holding a SoilSHOP on Saturday, August 2, from 12 PM to 4 PM at the Abington Free Library, 1030 Old York Road. This event provides an opportunity for the public to come and get their soil tested on site and receive consultation with DOH staff on their results. This program is open to residents and businesses from all municipalities. For further collection instructions, please click here.