Monitoring Advisories from the BioLab Fire in Rockdale County

On the morning of Sunday, September 29, 2024, a fire ignited at the BioLab plant in neighboring Rockdale County. Updates have been ongoing from Rockdale County EMA, FEMA, and GEMA/HS.

September 30, 2024

*Sign up for Newton County's CodeRED service at  https://public.coderedweb.com/CNE/en-US/BF879E7AA795.

 

Monday, 9/30/24, at 2:37 PM: The Newton County Sheriff's Office shared FEMA's assessment of the situation in regards to Newton County: "According to FEMA, Newton County has not experienced significant impacts from the BioLab fire in Conyers, GA, and therefore a shelter-in-place order is not necessary at this time.

We have personnel stationed at the Emergency Command Center in Rockdale County, actively receiving crucial information from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Environmental Protection Division (EPD), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Should conditions change, we will inform the public."

 

Monday, 9/30/24, at 1:40 PM: A public alert was distributed by GEMA/HS that stated, "Public Safety Alert from Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency "...on behalf of the Environmental Protection Division local area emergency due to ROCKDALE COUNTY BIOLAB FIRE. The EPA is MONITORING air quality for CHLORINE AND RELATED COMPOUNDS. Chemical levels are UNLIKELY TO CAUSE HARM TO MOST PEOPLE."

 

Monday, 9/30/24, at 11:41 AM: A message from Newton County's CodeRED service stated, "Newton County EMA: We are monitoring the recent BioLab incident in Rockdale, working closely with local authorities to ensure the safety of our community. BioLab fire has been reported extinguished. It may continue to smolder. We continue to work with officials as the plume models continue to adjust path. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, be aware of any unusual chemical odors in the area. We encourage you to stay indoors if possible. If you experience any symptoms as headaches, difficulty breathing, or other health concerns, please contact 9-1-1. Continue to follow instructions from local officials and Newton County."

 

Sunday, 9/29/24, at 7:15 PM: Newton County Schools closed school for Monday, September 30, 2024, out of an abundance of caution. 

 

Sunday, 9/29/24, at 4:15 PM: A message from Newton County's CodeRED service stated, "We are aware of what is happening in our neighboring county of Rockdale. We are monitoring the situation and would advise that if you smell a chlorine odor you should turn off your air conditioners, turn on your ceiling fans, and if possible, bring your outside animals indoors. If you experience any trouble breathing or any other medical emergency call 911. As for now, sheltering in place is the best option. This message from Newton County EMA”

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