A towering scrapyard fire at the Central Florida Recycling Center on South Garfield Avenue sent thick black smoke across DeLand on Wednesday afternoon, May 6, prompting city officials to urge nearby residents to head inside and shut their windows while firefighters worked the scene.
What officials said
According to FOX 35 Orlando, fire crews were dispatched after flames were reported near the intersection of Garfield Avenue and Samuel Street and stayed on scene into the evening. The station reported no injuries and said firefighters were still working to pin down the full size and scope of the blaze.
Where the fire burned
The facility identified in media reports is the Central Florida Recycling Center, which business listings place at 906 S. Garfield Ave in DeLand. The Volusia County Professional Firefighters Association shared updates from the scene, as reported by Hindustan Times, and local directories list the yard at that same address (MapQuest).
Health risks and precautions
Smoke from burning scrap and vehicle parts can carry fine particulates and chemical irritants that aggravate eyes and lungs, especially for people with asthma, heart disease, or other health vulnerabilities. Public health guidance from AirNow recommends staying indoors with windows closed, using air conditioning or air filtration when possible, and seeking medical care if breathing trouble or other severe symptoms develop.
Why scrapyard blazes are stubborn
Scrapyard piles, often made up of metal, tires, plastics, and leftover fluids, can hide smoldering hotspots that re‑ignite and complicate firefighting. A recent Orange County scrap‑yard fire that crews described as a 50‑by‑50 pile shows how the sheer volume of material and concealed fuel sources can drag out suppression efforts; see WFTV for a similar example.
What to expect next
City officials said they plan to release more details once the scene is fully secured and investigators determine the next steps. This story will be updated when officials post new information or additional safety notices for nearby residents.
