COVINGTON, Ky. - Covington Fire Department officials on Sunday afternoon were advising residents and businesses of West Latonia within 1,000 feet of Interplastic Corporation across the border in Fort Wright to “shelter in place” after an apparent equipment failure at the plant led to the release of a “chemical irritant” this afternoon.

 

Fire Chief Mark Pierce said no injuries have been reported as a vapor cloud coming from the plant is blowing east and dissipating.

 

The chemical is considered a lung irritant, said Mike Bloemer, Covington Fire Department Assistant Chief of Training and Operations, who was at the scene.

 

“Shelter in place” means to go inside, shut your doors and windows, and turn off any ventilation drawing air in from the outside.

 

Fort Wright firefighters as well as Kenton County Homeland Security Emergency Management and the regional hazardous materials team are at the scene, Bloemer said.

 

A call reporting “white smoke” in the area came in to authorities at 12:51 p.m., Pierce said. Some neighbors are reporting a chemical smell.

 

The release occurred reportedly because a pressure release valve failed or stuck. The plant is at 3535 Latonia Ave.

 

Go to the City of Covington’s Facebook page, @covingtonkygov, for updates.

 

 

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