Hazmat Response Unit Assists Wastewater Utilities
The Las Cruces Fire Department’s Hazardous Materials Response Unit assisted with a possible faulty chlorine cylinder at the Wastewater Treatment Facility on Wednesday.
Shortly before 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 21, the Hazmat Response Unit was dispatched to the Wastewater Treatment Facility on west Amador Avenue after staff detected possible abnormalities on one of their one-ton chlorine cylinders. The Hazmat Response Unit was dispatched out of an abundance of caution.
Hazmat crews investigated the large tank and found no active leaks or hazardous environment. As a precautionary measure, the hazmat crew assisted Wastewater Treatment Facility personnel with shutting off the cylinder and capping the main valve. The cylinder in question is expected to be returned to the supplier for further review.
No injuries were reported, and there was no immediate threat to the environment or nearby residents.
The Hazmat Response Unit, part of the Las Cruces Fire Department, provides hazardous materials guidance and mitigation services to residents, businesses and industry affected by the use or release of hazardous materials. The Las Cruces Wastewater Treatment Facility, located at 2851 W. Amador Blvd., treats approximately 3.3 billion gallons of sewage per year.
