Statement from EPA, DEQ, and LDH Regarding Environmental Safety Following Smitty’s Supply Facility Fire
In coordination with local, state, and federal officials, environmental sampling and analysis have been conducted following the fire at the Smitty’s Supply Facility. Based on the data currently available, there is no indication of any imminent threat to public health from the soot or smoke residue deposited in the surrounding area.
Out of an abundance of caution, residents are advised to take general hygiene precautions, including washing any outside surfaces that may have been impacted by soot or smoke and practicing good handwashing after contact with outdoor surfaces. Do not ingest any deposited soot or come into direct contact with areas of concentrated residue.
At this time, there are no restrictions on outdoor activities such as washing cars. To help maintain water system pressure, avoid water-intensive cleaning during peak usage times (early mornings and late afternoon/early evenings). We recommend standard hygiene practices, including washing hands after outdoor work or contact with potentially affected surfaces.
The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will continue to monitor air and water quality during and after the cleanup process to ensure public safety remains protected. The EPA remains the lead agency for the cleanup response, including the recovery of materials from the facility.
Regarding the Roseland Water System, the recent boil water advisory was not due to contamination, but rather a precaution related to water pressure drops caused by the large volume of water used in firefighting efforts. This water system draws from a deep well and is not impacted from runoff from the Smitty’s Supply fire. As water pressure is restored, and the boil water advisory is lifted, residents are encouraged to conserve water as the system stabilizes.
For questions related to property or insurance claims, residents may contact the Smitty’s Supply Claim Line at 877-891-2276.
For media inquiries or further questions, please contact: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Ed Mekeel, Public Information Officer Email- mekeel.edward@epa.gov and R6Press@epa.gov.