EPA responded to a large area mercury spill in Simi Valley, CA (4100 Cochran Street). EPA received a request from Ventura County Health Hazmat (VCHH) to assist with the case. Several local media outlets are covering the scene and multiple fire and police units are there. Responders require mercury surveillance support immediately.
VCHH reported that approximately 2 pounds of mercury, from an unknown source, had been broken outdoors possibly months prior, and reportedly a pool remained on the driveway since that time. The source has now been spread widely. It is visible in droplets on the street and has likely been tracked through as many as 6 homes on a cul-de-sac. As many as seven children the occupants. Most of these occupants have been evacuated. Three emergency vehicles may be contaminated as well.
Authorities were alerted early this afternoon when the dog of one of the families and the vet suggested that the dog had mercury poisoning. Authorities have closed down Cochran Street, a main thoroughfare, as well as the cul-de-sac, to prevent further spread of contamination.
EPA conducted a CERCLA Emergency Removal Action. Removal activities included sulfuring the streets and sealing them with asphalt sealer, removal of contaminated soil, grass and carpet from one home and epoxy sealing of one driveway. Removal activities were completed on May 22, 2015.
