An industrial fire in Richmond, Indiana, that burned for two days has finally been contained. However, this just means that there are no visible flames. This happened at a plastics and recycling industrial plant. It could take several weeks for the fire to be considered fully out, as many plastics are still smoldering. As these plastics burn some are releasing toxic and even carcinogenic chemicals such as asbestos and do present an imminent danger to those nearby. As a result, those who live within half a mile of the fire are being told to evacuate. The EPA is doing testing and will remain to do testing to see the levels of various toxins within the air quality.
In 2020, it was discovered that the owner of the recycling plant Seth Smith had fire hazards and missing fire sprinklers. Officials who work in the city of Richmond are stating that Smith is responsible for the fire. It will be interesting to see how this plays out seeing that people might have long term health effects from the various toxins released into the air. As more information comes forth, Your Daily Load will work to bring you updates on this situation.
Comments