LA SALLE, Ill. (WTVO) — Multiple explosions were reported at Carus Chemical in La Salle on Wednesday morning, and billowing clouds of smoke could be seen emanating from the factory.
As of 1:15 p.m., officials said the fire is under control but continues to burn.
Carus Chemical, located at 1500 8th Street, produces potassium permanganate, an oxidant used to treat drinking water, wastewater, industrial process chemicals, and for numerous other applications, according to the company’s website.
Fire departments from multiple surrounding agencies were called in around 9 a.m. to respond to contain the blaze, which started after an explosion occurred in a shipping container in the shipping department, according to police and as reported by NBC Chicago.
A video posted to Twitter showed the massive fire.
Police Chief Mike Smudzinski said all employees were accounted for.
The police department issued a warning to residents of La Salle’s 3rd and 4th wards, saying “Due to recent events, an oxidizer (which appears green in color) has been released in the area. Do NOT touch this substance. If you see this substance near or on your residence, it can be deactivated. In order to deactivate it, you will need a 1:1:1 mixture of: 1 gallon of water, 1 gallon of peroxide, 1 gallon of vinegar.”
Kim Biggs, a spokesperson for the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, said the agency is still gathering information and will respond to the site.
DEVELOPING…
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
