Residents in Warwick can breathe a sigh of relief as the fumes-emitting lithium-ion batteries that had caused concern in the community are being relocated. Recent incidents involving a days-long fire at a storage site on County Route 1 and fumes emanating from a storage site on Church Street Extension had raised worries among locals. However, steps have been taken to address the situation, with the batteries from the Church Street site being packaged and properly disposed of on Monday. While the batteries at the CR-1 location remain, they have cooled down, aiding in the ongoing investigation. Hazmat crews and the local school district have conducted tests and found no harmful chemicals or residue related to the batteries.
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FAQs:
1. What were the recent incidents in Warwick involving lithium-ion batteries?
– There were two incidents: a fire at a storage site on County Route 1 and the emission of fumes from a storage site on Church Street Extension.
2. Are the batteries responsible for the incidents being removed?
– Yes, the batteries from the Church Street site have been packaged and properly disposed of, while those at the CR-1 location have cooled down and remain under investigation.
3. Were any harmful chemicals found in the air or on surfaces?
– Hazmat crews conducted extensive air metering over three days and did not detect elevated levels of any chemicals related to the batteries. The school district also tested surfaces in buses and classrooms and found no residue of harmful chemicals.
4. What precautions are being taken by state officials and local authorities?
– The Town Supervisor of Warwick, Michael Sweeton, has emphasized the need for state officials to evaluate safety precautions regarding lithium-ion batteries. The operator of the storage sites and the battery manufacturer are also working alongside local fire officials to investigate the cause of the incidents.
5. How are residents being reassured about their safety?
– The prompt actions taken, such as removing the batteries emitting fumes and conducting tests, have addressed residents’ concerns. No harmful chemicals were found, and ongoing investigations aim to prevent similar incidents in the future. Residents can stay updated through local authorities and news sources.
In conclusion, the recent incidents involving fumes-emitting lithium-ion batteries in Warwick have prompted swift action from local authorities. The removal of the batteries emitting fumes, along with extensive testing that found no harmful chemicals, has helped reassure residents. However, the incidents have also highlighted the need for state officials to evaluate safety precautions surrounding such batteries. Ongoing investigations, led by the operator of the storage sites and the battery manufacturer, aim to identify the cause and prevent similar occurrences. The well-being and safety of residents remain a top priority, with regular updates available from local authorities and news outlets.
