Columbus, Wisconsin is a little industrial city near Madison, and most people have not heard of this sleepy little peaceful place outside of the area. Unfortunately, that’s about to change for the wrong reasons. Columbus is home to a lot of industry, and one of their main cogs is the Columbus Chemical Industries plant has been in business for 30 years and employs more than 50 people.
On Monday night, according to an article published by the Wisconsin State Journal, the chemical plant rocked the town and the area with a fire and an explosion, prompting immediate and sharp reactions from those charged with safety in these situations.
“U.S. 151 north of this city remained closed in both directions Tuesday because of a fire and explosions that rocked Columbus Chemical Industries on Monday night, prompting the evacuation of nearby residents and warnings to people who live farther away to stay inside and close their windows.
Besides 151, Wisconsin 73 is also closed. Temkin Road runs along Wisconsin 73, just south of the 151/73 intersection. Motorists were redirected to Wisconsin 16 and 60 in Columbus as a detour.
Officials said 144 people from 65 residences within a half-mile of the fire evacuated, some as a result of officials going door to door asking residents to leave. People in Beaver Dam, 10 miles away, received Reverse 911 calls telling them to stay inside.
The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office dispatcher said there’s no indication as of 6 a.m. when the residents who evacuated would be allowed back into their homes.”
While the swift action from safety officials is admirable, the cause of the fire has yet to be determined. When it is, there will be civil liability questions to answer, as this is an extremely dangerous situation that can cause harm for a long time into the future. If you or someone you love has been injured due to exposure to dangerous chemicals, contact the Phillips National Injury Group today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Tue, May 12, 2009
Personal Injury