WOODVILLE – Tyler County Judge Milton Powers issued a disaster declaration citing the massive tire disposal/recycling facility fire that began on Saturday, August 3.
Powers’ declaration cites the regional susceptibility to “the threat of potential pollutants and safety issues in our county and surrounding counties due to a hazard material fire and smoke” from the blaze.
The declaration is set to last for a period of no more than seven days from its date, unless renewed by the Commissioners’ Court.
The disaster and declaration are the topics of an emergency-called meeting of the Tyler County Commissioners’ Court for Thursday, Sept. 4 at 10 a.m. The declaration is on the agenda to continue or renew for a period of 30 days.
According to a news release from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the blaze itself is contained at this time, and responders are using machinery to spread the tire piles apart.
The EPA noted that air releases from the incident have the potential to impact nearby residences, and that personnel from the Tyler County Emergency Management Office, as well as EPA personnel, and TCEQ are continuing to monitor the impacts.
The Texas Poison Center was notified by EPA of this incident. If you are experiencing any adverse health effects related to this incident, please contact your medical provider. If you cannot reach your medical provider, the Texas Poison Center is available to provide guidance. You can view the Texas Poison Center Website at https://www.poisoncontrol.org or call 1-800-222-1222.
