A fire broke out at the Martinez Refining Company in California, prompting authorities to issue a public health advisory. The situation led to temporary shelter-in-place orders and road closures, while air quality officials warned residents about possible health risks. Here’s a detailed update on the incident.
Shelter-in-Place Alert Issued and Lifted
After the fire started on Saturday afternoon, Contra Costa County quickly sent a shelter-in-place alert to nearby neighborhoods around the Martinez Refining Company. Although the alert was later lifted, a public health advisory remains active for the city of Martinez and nearby areas like Pacheco and Clyde.
Injuries Reported at the Site
The Contra Costa Fire Protection District confirmed that six workers at the refinery were injured. Four of them were taken to the hospital for treatment, though specific details about their condition were not immediately provided.
Timeline of Events
- 1:47 p.m.: The Martinez Refining Company reported the fire to the county.
- Initial Alert Level: The community alert level was set to 3 but later downgraded to level 2 as the fire came under control.
- 5:15 p.m.: Mutual aid responders helped contain the fire to the refinery site.
Road Closures and Safety Measures
Authorities closed key roads around the refinery to manage the situation, including:
- Marina Vista Avenue (from Interstate 680 to Court Street)
- Shell Avenue (from Marina Vista to Pacheco Boulevard)
Residents in affected areas were advised to stay indoors and take safety precautions such as:
- Closing windows and doors
- Turning off air conditioning, heaters, and fans
- Sealing cracks around doors and windows with tape or damp towels
Air Quality Concerns and Health Advisory
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District issued an air quality advisory for Contra Costa and Solano counties. Officials warned that smoke from the fire contains fine particulate matter and other pollutants that can pose health risks, even with short exposure.
People with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or allergies, may be especially vulnerable. Common symptoms of exposure include:
- Eye or skin irritation
- Nose or throat discomfort
Residents experiencing any of these symptoms were advised to go indoors and rinse the affected areas. Contra Costa Health emphasized that most people would not experience severe effects.
Ongoing Alerts and Monitoring
Contra Costa Health confirmed that community alerts would be issued every 30 minutes until the situation is fully resolved. Inspectors from the air quality district are also monitoring the site to ensure any potential risks are mitigated quickly.
The fire at the Martinez Refining Company has been contained, but the event highlights the importance of quick action and proper safety measures during emergencies. Residents near the area are encouraged to stay updated through local alerts and take necessary precautions if they notice any symptoms of smoke exposure. Authorities are actively monitoring air quality and ensuring public safety. This incident serves as a reminder of how industrial accidents can affect communities and the importance of being prepared.