Fire at US chem plant site prompts evacuation

05 June 2008 08:22  [Source: ICIS news]

SINGAPORE (ICIS news)--Three tanker trailers filled with toluene and ethyl acetate burst into flames at the site of US specialty chemicals producer Ashland in Fairfield, California, the Fairfield fire department said on Thursday.

 The fire, which prompted the evacuation of nearby businesses, was put out within three hours.

"The fire started with one truck but spread to two others that were nearby. They were all within the compound of the chemical plant," added Jerry Clark, assistant fire marshal.

The chemical plant was not directly involved in the fire which occurred late Wednesday, and the extent of damage was still unkown said Clark, adding that investigations were still on.

Residents in the area were asked to stay indoors and to seal their windows to avoid any possible health threats.

"The fire might have been sparked by a brake fire or a tyre fire but we are not sure at this point in time," said Clark.

By: Bohan Loh
+65 6780 4359

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