Drone Photo by Sam Holland
Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Friday, April 13, 2018
(MITCHELL) - The fire is still burning at Fibertech.
The Indiana National Guard was deployed this morning to assist in extinguishing the fire using aerial water drops. Mutual aid fire departments from surrounding counties have also been assisting. But the aerial support did not extinguish the blaze.
Following several water drops (more than 550 gal each), it became evident the wind was too strong and dispersing the water. Crews began using heavy equipment to relocate the mulch to a nearby wetland to help the fire dissolve.
Because the smoke continues to be thick, some residents who were evacuated in the immediate area likely will be relocated to a shelter being established by the Lawrence County EMA.
Hazmat officials with the Indiana State Fire Marshal's office continue to monitor the plume. The smoke can cause health concerns if people are exposed for an extended period, and residents are encouraged to contact their doctor if they begin to experience symptoms related to the smoke (burning eyes, shortness of breath, etc.)
The fire is being closely monitored by crews on the ground, although it is expected to burn in spots for a few days.
All local firefighters that had left the scene to get some much needed rest have been requested to return to the scene with tanker support.
Residents in the surrounding area are asked to stay inside to avoid the smoke from the fire. In addition, Poison Control encourages any resident who was exposed or in the path of the plume and experiencing symptoms to contact their family physician as a precaution.
The fire at Fibertech began at about 11 a.m. on Thursday. A 7-acre mulch pile continues to burn, resulting in heavy smoke throughout the town of Mitchell and Bedford area.
Drone Photo by Sam Holland
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