Concerns After Warrick County Chemical Fire
Following the recent chemical fire at the PBTT Corp manufacturing facility on Vann Road in Warrick County, many residents have raised concerns about safety.
Posted by Eyewitness News WEHT WTVW on Saturday, September 6, 2025
UPDATE: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9TH
The Warrick Health Dept issued the following guidance this morning concerning cleanup and outdoor gardens.
General Indoor Safety
- Use an air purifier or ventilation system with a HEPA filter to remove particles from indoor air.
- Ensure the purifier is sized correctly for the room.
Gardening Safety
- Wash, soak, or peel plants to avoid eating dust and soil particles.
- Keep children from eating soil or dirt.
- Water plants near the bottom to prevent soil splash on plants; avoid overhead watering.
- Remove shoes and wipe down pets to avoid tracking soil/ash indoors.
- Wash your hands after gardening.
Mental Health
- Anxiety, worrying, trouble sleeping, and depression are common after a fire.
- If symptoms last several days, seek professional support.
- Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
Assessing for Contamination
- If no visible soot/ash on surfaces, no suspended particles, and no smoke odor, no remediation is required.
- Do a wipe test: wipe a wall or windowsill. If no soot/ash appears, intrusion is likely minimal.
- If soot/ash is visible or smoke odor is strong, more thorough cleaning is recommended.
Cleaning Up After a Fire
- Keep children away until ash/dust is cleaned.
- Cloth masks, paper masks, and bandanas are not effective for fine ash/dust.
- Use N95 respirators (properly worn) for protection.
- Avoid leaf blowers, dry sweeping, or vacuuming without a HEPA filter.
- Wear rubber gloves when cleaning. Wash hands/body after.
- For outdoor cleanup: dampen ash before cleaning.
- Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.
- Do not use pressure washers, leaf blowers, or shop vacuums without HEPA filters.
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Health Guidance for Returning After a Fire (Warrick County, IN)
Blood Testing (for lead exposure): Covered by most insurance (including Medicaid & Medicare).
- Warrick County Health Department (Children 0–7): 107 West Locust Street, Boonville, IN 812-897-6105
- Vanderburgh County Health Department: 420 Mulberry Street, Evansville, IN 47713 Contact: 812-435-5568 health.vanderburghcounty.in.gov
Certified Drinking Water Labs:
- Indiana Drinking Water Laboratory Certification
Water and Soil Testing
- Warrick County Health Department: 812-897-6105 ext. 6 Email: [email protected]
- Vanderburgh County Health Department: 420 Mulberry Street, Evansville, IN 47713 Contact: 812-435-5568 health.vanderburghcounty.in.gov
Read more here
Important Guidance Information From The Warrick County Health Department:…