Richmond Toxic Fire: ‘Smoke is definitely toxic;’ Carcinogenic chemicals found in testing

RICHMOND — State and city fire officials are warning the public of the toxic smoke billowing from a fire burning through a plastics facility.

>> PHOTOS: Large-scale fire continues to send plumes of black smoke into air in Richmond

News Center 7 previously reported on the breaking news that multiple fire departments from Indiana and the Miami Valley were responding to a structure fire called in shortly after 2 p.m. on NW F Street, Richmond Fire Chief Tim Brown stated in a press conference. As the call came in, Richmond firefighters stated that they could see the smoke from their station over a mile away.

Richmond and Indiana officials worked together to create an evacuation zone after learning that “unknown types of plastics” were fueling the fire, Brown said.

“Anything that burns has a lot of toxic chemicals,” Indiana State Fire Marshal Steve Jones informed. However, there was a greater risk with plastics burning because of the “host of different chemicals” that gasify when burned, especially those that can cause cancer.

Recent tests by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found several toxic compounds in the air, including those known to cause cancer: styrene and benzene, among others. “The smoke is definitely toxic,” Jones declared.

As a result, state and city officials all urged people inside the evacuation zone to leave the premises and find temporary shelter due to the carcinogenic risk. The evacuation zone was half a mile from the incident site at 358 NW F Street.

For residents and pets who lived near the fire, but not in the evacuation zone, they were directed to shelter inside. But, the rule of thumb was “if you can see the smoke, you’re in the smoke. Get out of the smoke,” according to Christine Stinson, Executive Director of the Wayne County Health Department.

Those particularly in danger were residents who suffered from chronic illnesses, especially respiratory illnesses.

The official acknowledged that masks can help filter out fine particulates; however, it was no substitute to fully evacuating from the toxic site.

Those within the evacuation zone who needed to return to their home for essentials such as medication were required to speak with appropriate crews handling the scene to coordinate a safe method for their temporary return.

If residents found debris nearby, authorities recommended leaving the debris alone. The burning structure’s age created a potential risk that the debris would contain asbestos, another known carcinogen.

Emergency responders also continued to test water systems for any toxic chemicals. Officials reassured that the drinking water was safe for all people. Furthermore, the water near the fire site was redirected to a treatment facility for sanitation, according to Brown.

However, all of these conditions may changed as the day progresses because of the volatility with the active site. Shifting winds could cause the evacuation zone to move or expand. An increase in airborne and waterway risk could develop from unpredictable causes.

The Wayne County Emergency Management Agency along with the City of Richmond will continue to keep their social media pages updated.

Wayne County EMA also utilizes Everbridge Nixle alerts which are also used to push out information. You may subscribe to receive these alerts by texting your zip code to 765-888-777 or online at www.nixle.com.

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