Emergency crews respond to hazardous waste incident in Atascadero
Nearby residents ordered to shelter in place
– A hazardous materials incident occurred on Sept. 1 at 1:50 p.m. adjacent to 6930 Morro Road in Atascadero, according to a press release sent by the City of Atascadero.
The incident was reported by a store employee who observed a large hazardous waste barrel outside that was emitting light, occasional smoke. The employee also reported hearing popping and crackling sounds before the fire department arrived. The incident occurred at a property owned by Circle K.
Upon arrival, Engine 7591 established command, isolated the area, and shut down a portion of Atascadero Avenue with assistance from the Atascadero Police Department and the Atascadero Public Works Department. Notifications were made to residents in the immediate area, advising them to shelter in place.
Cal Fire’s Hazardous Materials Response Team collaborated with the Atascadero Fire Department to identify the barrel’s contents and determined that there were no active leaks, releases, or spills. The incident was stabilized, and the scene was rendered safe. The business later reopened, and residents were informed that the shelter-in-place warning had been lifted.
A total of 16 personnel were involved in the operation, which took 150 minutes to control. No injuries were reported among emergency personnel or civilians.
