EPA has integrated into the Unified Command established for the InterRoyal Fire incident, which includes the Fire Department, Fire Marshall’s Office, CTDEP, ATSDR, and local health department. EPA OSCs, public affairs staff, and technical contractors are on-scene supporting response activities. EPA’s Mobile Command Post (MCP) has arrived.
The mill fire has been mostly extinguished and the smoke appears to be dissipating. Firefighters continue to water the building to target smoldering areas. Significant amounts of ash and debris have been transported by the smoke to residential and commercial areas (lawns, businesses, etc.) up to 5 miles from the site.
Weather forecasts for today and the rest of the week call for rain, with temperatures in the 40s – 60s F.
Analytical data for lead and asbestos is not yet available . The EPA mobile laboratory will be at the site tomorrow to provide field analysis for lead and asbestos.
Methyl mythacrylate, has been detected at low levels in a retention pond on-site. This chemical is associated with plastics manufacturing. Levels of MMA are below concern for human health and the environment.
CTDEP teams (contractors) are collecting visible debris from residential properties. Samples will be sent for asbestos analysis.
A press conference was held at noon with CTDEP in the lead role. Two EPA PIOs are at the scene.
OSC Gardner participated in a briefing with CT Governor Jodi Rell.
Another press conference is scheduled for 2000hrs tonight.
EPA has rotated OSC covereage for the site. CTDEP remains the lead agency.
The EPA mobile laboratory will be on the site tomorrow. CTDEP remains in the lead agency role.
Coordinate with CTDEP
|
