Auchenmalg phone exchange fire knocks out landlines
- Published
The area around Auchenmalg has been affected by the phone exchange fire
A phone exchange fire has knocked out landlines to properties in the south west of Scotland.
The Auchenmalg exchange burned down at about 12:00 on Monday affecting more than 100 properties in the area.
Dumfries and Galloway Council asked members of the public to visit any vulnerable members of the community to check on their welfare.
It said BT was working to restore normal service as soon as possible but it could take "several days".
BT said that 137 customers had been affected.
'Restore services'
"A small number of people are without phone and broadband services following a fire on Monday at the Auchenmalg exchange in Dumfries and Galloway," said a spokesman.
"No-one was injured by the fire and mobile networks are not affected.
"Engineers are assessing the damage and we are working with the emergency services and other partners to restore services as soon as possible."
A temporary mobile replacement exchange is on the way to Auchenmalg to reconnect homes and businesses.
"BT has set up a major incident vehicle in Auchenmalg and we're sending BT customers temporary mobile broadband dongles, where appropriate," the spokesman added.
"We're sorry for any inconvenience."
'Some reassurances'
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said it had been called out to a "well-developed fire" in the village at about 11:55 on Monday.
Three engines were sent to the scene and put out the blaze with no casualties.
Police said the area affected by the landline issues was along the A747 between Auchenmalg and Port William.
It said the villages of Port William, Glenluce and Sandhead - which had been hit - were now working as normal.
"We are aware of the risks involved and have held multi-agency meetings, where we have had some reassurances that vulnerable people are being cared for," said a spokesman.
"We will increase police presence in this area until the situation is resolved to engage with the public and any affected people looking for update.
"People within the communities affected are asked to check in with family and friends to ensure they are well."