The San Joaquin County Office of Emergency Services has issued a warning to Tracy residents affected by the Medline fire, advising them to avoid any contact with fire debris. The advisory, released just before noon on Friday, June 12, emphasizes that debris may contain hazardous materials, including sharp objects, unstable containers, and residue from burned chemicals that could pose health and safety risks.
In a Facebook post, the office stated, "Your safety is our top priority. If you find debris from the Medline Fire, do not touch, move, or collect it.
Fire debris may contain hazardous materials, sharp objects, unstable containers, or residue from burned chemicals that could pose a risk to your health and safety." Residents are urged to avoid direct contact and follow local officials' guidance for cleanup and disposal.
The Medline warehouse fire, which broke out on Thursday, has released chemicals such as respiratory irritants, toxic gases, carcinogens, and at least one neurotoxin, according to officials. Anyone in the vicinity of the smoke plumes who experiences sudden respiratory problems, headaches, dizziness, nausea, or throat irritation should seek immediate medical attention at the nearest emergency department.
Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid walking pets, and set air conditioners to recirculate mode.
Tracy residents can track the fire and smoke using the AirNow Smoke Map at bit.ly. Additionally, the city of Tracy has announced traffic alerts due to street sweeping of debris in the Tracy Hills area, which began Friday morning.
Crews are expected to work through the area to Ellis and return on Monday, June 15, to complete the cleanup. Road closures are in effect near the fire site, which destroyed the 1-million-square-foot Medline facility in a five-alarm blaze.
Fire officials reported that sprinklers were not operating during the incident.