The Garland Fire Department expects it will take weeks to finish cleaning up the aftermath of the Sherwin-Williams plant fire.
Firefighters responded to reports of a fire at the facility in the early morning hours of August 7. Upon arrival, fire personnel reported a massive blaze and multiple explosions inside, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
Multiple fire crews were able to suppress the blaze a few hours after it began. However, officials reported that foam retardant used to put out the fire at the facility had leaked into nearby sewers and creeks.
The City of Garland, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), and the EPA are working to mitigate the fallout.
The Garland Fire Department issued a press release on August 9 explaining that cleanup would likely take several weeks. Officials have constructed dams at each impacted creek and have begun testing water samples.
“The public is advised to not fish or have contact with impacted creeks while contaminant testing and cleanup activities continue,” reads the press release. “Some dead fish have been observed in these creeks, but no major impacts to public health have been identified at this time. Sanitation systems and city drinking water are being continuously monitored and have not been affected by the fire or cleanup efforts.”
Garland Mayor Scott LeMay said in the press release, “The City is grateful to have the expertise of TCEQ, the EPA and so many other partners as we work to ensure the health, safety and security of our residents.”
The EPA has activated a poison control center due to the incident. Citizens who feel unwell are advised to call 1-800-222-1222.
“Staff is working across the City and around the clock to monitor our water systems, mitigate the spread of and remove potential contaminants, conduct testing and ultimately protect our homeowners, local wildlife and environment. We are committed to keeping the public informed and will continue to release new information as soon as possible,” LeMay said, per the press release.