Chemical Reaction Sparks Fire at Ohio Plant

    May 20, 2011
    WINTON HILLS, Ohio -- Firefighters say a chemical reaction sparked a fire overnight at Emery Industries in Winton Hills. It happened around 11:45 p.m. Wednesday. When crews arrived they found a 250 gallon tank with fire shooting from the top. Officials with Emery Industries identified the substance inside as Dowtherm. Dowtherm is a low irritant that contains components that have caused cancer in laboratory animals. Officials said the leak was not large enough to cause any evacuations.

    WINTON HILLS, Ohio --

    Firefighters say a chemical reaction sparked a fire overnight at Emery Industries in Winton Hills.

    It happened around 11:45 p.m. Wednesday. When crews arrived they found a 250 gallon tank with fire shooting from the top.

    Officials with Emery Industries identified the substance inside as Dowtherm. Dowtherm is a low irritant that contains components that have caused cancer in laboratory animals.

    Officials said the leak was not large enough to cause any evacuations.

    To extinguish the flames, crews had to cool down the tank by spraying water on the outside. They also sprayed a mist on the flames to keep them from entering a nearby building.

    No injuries were reported. Damages are listed at $750,000.

    Copyright 2011 by WLWT.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

    Voice Your Opinion!

    To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!