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DEQ and EPA Release Additional Results from Air Monitoring in Tulsa Area

Release Date: 08/09/2010
Contact Information: Dave Bary at 214-665-2200, r6press@epa.gov or Skylar McElhaney at 405-702-7167

(Dallas, Texas - August 9, 2010) The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continued to monitor air quality in the Tulsa area throughout the weekend following a fire that started Wednesday night at the North Tulsa Sanitary Landfill. The results indicate that no toxic materials, other than the normal components of smoke, were released into the air as a result of this fire.

EPA deployed ground monitors at various sites around the landfill to look for a variety of substances, including particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, and inorganic compounds.

DEQ reminds residents that smoke is present and even without toxic vapors can irritate the respiratory system and can worsen symptoms for those who already have breathing difficulties due to conditions such as asthma and emphysema. DEQ continues to encourage individuals with this type of pre-existing condition to avoid the smoke by remaining indoors.

Additionally, the emergency order for the landfill to stop accepting waste issued by DEQ Thursday remains in effect. Under the order, the landfill must comply with all applicable regulations before it can reopen.