Expert: PAHs Concern in Waxahachie Chemical Fire, Air Qualtiy Could be Similar to Sept. 11

Pitch

Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a concern with the large fire in Waxahachie, Texas, as it could be releasing toxic chemicals into the air. The air quality could be similar to that of Sept. 11.

Expert

Ron Kendall, director of The Institute of Environmental and Human Health, (806) 885-4567, ron.kendall@tiehh.ttu.edu.

Talking Points

• Hydraulic fluids and oil-based substances are, for a large part, creating the dark black smoke coming from the fire.
• Combusiton of oil-type substances can result in release of PAHs.
• Air quality could be similar to that of Sept. 11.
• Caution should be taken around the fire and smoke.

Quotes

• "I would particularly be concerned about PAHs. Combustion of hydraulic fluids and other oil-based substances, which to a large part, is creating the dark black smoke from the large fire in Waxahachie, could also be liberating toxic chemicals into the air. Great care should be implemented to avoid breathing the smoke. For instance, combusiton of oil-type substances can result in release of PAHs as an example, including benzo(a)pyrene, and therefore great care should be implemented to avoid breathing the smoke. This is exactly what happened during Sept. 11."
• "If near the fire, close up your house. It is best to leave as long as there is smoke in the air. Close up your car also. Protect your pets and animals from breathing this in. It is very dangerous, as the smoke contains toxic chemicals and combustion byproducts."