A public health advisory and a shelter-in-place were in effect due to a fire at the Martinez Refining Company, Contra Costa Health said on Saturday.
The Martinez Refining Company said it was a fire and flaring at the refinery that prompted the level 2 hazmat notification, which was later upgraded to a level 3. The facility alerted the county about the fire at 1:47 p.m., Contra Costa Health said in a Facebook post.
As of 5:15 p.m., the Martinez Refining Company said mutual aid responded to assist with the fire, which has been contained to the site. Additionally, at least three people had to be transported off-site. One person was treated and released.
Due to the fire, Marina Vista Avenue from Interstate 680 to Court Street, and Shell Avenue from Marina Vista to Pacheco Boulevard were closed.
“Please go inside, close all windows and doors, turn off all heaters, air conditioners and fans. If not using the fireplace, close fireplace dampers and vents, and cover cracks around doors and windows with tape or damp towels,” Contra Costa Health said.
Contra Costa Health said a shelter-in-place alert was sent to neighborhoods near the Martinez Refining Company. This includes the Pacheco Boulevard corridor north toward the Benicia Bridge.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District said it had inspectors on site and issued an air quality advisory in Contra Costa and Solano counties due to the fire.
“Smoke from the fire contains fine particulate matter and other harmful pollutants. Exposure to smoke is unhealthy, even for short periods of time. It is important that Bay Area residents protect their health by avoiding exposure,” the district said in a statement.
People with respiratory sensitivities could be affected. Some residents may experience eye, skin, nose or throat irritation.
Anyone who experiences irritation should go inside and rinse the affected area. Most people will not experience any issues, Contra Costa Health said.
The appropriate agencies about a level 2 hazmat notification. The company said the incident was a fire and flaring at the refinery.
Bay City News contributed to this report.
Jose FabianJose Fabian is a web producer for CBS Bay Area where he reports on local crime, politics and breaking news. He studied political science and journalism at Sacramento State and was born and raised in Northern California.
