CHEMICAL EXPLOSION IN CALIFORNIA. DOZENS WENT TO THE HOSPITAL.
A mysterious chemical mixture burst
into flames at a Ventura County waste facility on Tuesday, sending
dozens to hospitals for decontamination and emptying homes and
businesses for a mile around the plant before the danger eased,
authorities said.
A
vacuum truck exploded into flames about 3:45 a.m. at the Santa Clara
Waste Water Co., spreading about 1,200 gallons of a mysterious waste
chemical mixture that contained sulfuric acid and a highly combustible
organic peroxide, fire officials said.
"As
the liquid began to dry out, the (fire engine) companies on scene
noticed that it was very unstable and reactive," Ventura County fire
Capt. Mike Lindbery said. "As they stepped on it or tried to move their
engine, it would spontaneously ignite under the tire of the engine or
their boots."
No
burn injuries were reported, but two drivers on a vacuum truck, three
firefighters, hospital medical staff and a few nearby residents were
washed down or treated for complaints such as breathing problems, red
eyes and skin rashes, said Lori Ross, a spokeswoman for the Ventura
County Fire Department.