ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY CO. PLANT FIRE

10.05.06: A fire erupted at the Environmental Quality Company in Apex, NC leading authorities to urge 16,000 residents to evacuate the area. The fire was followed by a series of explosions releasing a number of dangerous chemicals into the air including chlorine.

Background:

A fire broke out around 10 p.m. at the Environmental Quality Co. hazardous waste plant on the outskirts of Raleigh. A series of explosions following the fire are believed to be the result of the fire spreading to an adjacent plant exploding four petroleum tanks. The fire has released a number of dangerous chemicals including chlorine. Residents reported smelling chemicals and seeing a chemical plume up to 2 miles away. Authorities urged residents to evacuate - even Apex's 911 center and fire department were evacuated because of the fire.

The following morning, area schools and downtown Apex were closed and police had blocked off streets in the area as the fire continued to burn. Authorities are not sure what caused the fire due to the wide array of industrial wastes on site at the company. It has also been reported that ten police officers and one firefighter are among those suffering nausea and respiratory problems from their exposure to the fire and chemicals.

What can I do?

Zimmerman Reed is experienced in handling cases that impact our communities and our environment. We welcome any questions you may have. If you were one of the many affected by the Environmental Quality Company fire, give us a call, we would like to help.

For more information, contact our office at 1.800.493.2827 or if you prefer, click here to send an email.