Paul Tucker
Updated on: October 15, 2024 4:14 pm GMT
A fire at a chemical facility in Conyers, Georgia has led to a significant emergency response, with mandatory evacuations and multiple road closures affecting the area. The incident unfolded at the BioLab facility on Old Covington Highway, raising concerns and prompting immediate action from local authorities.
Emergency Response and Evacuations
The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office reported the fire on Sunday morning, calling it a hazmat (hazardous materials) situation. This prompted officials to evacuate residents living within a specific radius of the facility. People living along certain roads were instructed to leave their homes for safety reasons. Key actions taken include:
- Evacuations: Residents north of Sigman Road are being evacuated.
- Road Closures: Several major roads are currently closed:
– Rockdale Industrial
– Old Covington to Sigman Road
– Covington to 2nd Street
– Lester Road to Sigman Road
– Farmer Road from Sigman Road to Rockdale Industrial
– Rockbridge from Sigman Road to Main Street
Authorities have advised the public to avoid the area and follow detour signs to ensure their safety as emergency services respond to the situation.
Advice for Residents
Local residents have been receiving specific safety instructions from the sheriff’s office. They have been asked to:
- Remain Indoors: Stay inside, keeping doors and windows shut to minimize exposure to potential hazards.
- Follow Official Guidance: Keep updated with local news and heed all evacuation orders and advisories issued by officials.
The JP Carr Gym located at 90 Hardin Street SW in Conyers has been designated as an evacuation site for those displaced by the fire.
BioLab Facility Information
BioLab is a division of KIK Consumer Products, which specializes in swimming pool and spa water care products. The facility has a history of fires, with incidents recorded in 2004 and more recently in September 2020. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency confirmed that a similar situation caused road closures and evacuations due to smoke from the facility.
In a statement, KIK Consumer Products assured the public that:
- Their employees were accounted for and reported no injuries.
- The company is actively working with local authorities and first responders to manage the situation effectively.
Moving Forward
As this situation continues to develop, county officials have emphasized the importance of community safety. A press conference is scheduled for 10 a.m. to provide further details about the fire and the response efforts. Safety measures remain in place to protect the public as emergency crews work to control the situation.
Local residents and nearby businesses are encouraged to stay updated through reliable news sources such as Atlanta News First for ongoing information.
In times like these, it is crucial to remain vigilant and follow guidance from authorities. Keeping informed helps ensure the safety of everyone in the community. The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office is dedicated to responding effectively to ensure the public’s well-being during this emergency.
Keep an eye out for updates on this story as we learn more!
