From Tim Olk at Chem Tools, located at 1165 Prairie Hill Road in Rockton, IL

Tim Olk photo

Tim Olk photo

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Excerpts from abc7Chicago.com:

An explosion occurred near Rockton, Illinois, at a Chemtool chemical plant around 7 a.m. The thick black smoke is still drifting south and southeast, causing concern for nearby residents.

Approximately 40 to 45 emergency agencies from northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin have been involved in the response, but efforts to control the fire have been limited. Firefighters are struggling with the intensity of the blaze, which continues to burn despite their best efforts.

Chemtool produces industrial lubricants. About 70 employees were evacuated before firefighters arrived. Fortunately, no workers were injured, though one firefighter was taken to the hospital for minor injuries. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the company has had no compliance violations in the past three years.

Air quality monitoring shows that ground-level air is currently safe, but officials have advised evacuations as a precaution. They believe it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially given the potential risks associated with the chemicals involved.

Firefighters have stopped using water to avoid environmental damage, as runoff could contaminate a nearby river. Instead, they're allowing the oil-based product to burn off over time, which may take several days. This approach is risky, but it's considered the lesser of two evils compared to the potential ecological impact.

 

A mandatory evacuation has been issued for all residents and businesses within a one-mile radius of 1165 Prairie Hill Road. Drivers are strongly urged to avoid the area due to ongoing hazards and traffic disruptions.

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