Is Ohio Safe Right Now? 10 Deadly Health Issues Residents May Be at Risk Of

The Ohio village of East Palestine has been thrown into turmoil after a train derailment this month put the safety of its residents in jeopardy. The turn of events has made them wonder: 'Is Ohio safe right now?' by having to cause thick black smoke to engulf the area.

The incident saw 50 train cars derail and catch fire while passing through the village, located about 50 miles northwest of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Authorities were forced to conduct a "controlled release" and burn off the toxic material to avert a potential explosion, which led to a days-long blaze and a mushroom cloud of deadly fumes that could be seen from miles away.

Reports addressed to Norfolk Southern Railway, the train's operator, confirmed that 20 of the cars carried hazardous materials, including vinyl chloride, a known carcinogen, and other toxic chemicals like butyl acrylate and ethylhexyl acrylate.

Over 1,500 residents were instructed to evacuate immediately to avoid inhaling the toxic fumes. However, just five days later, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local officials deemed it safe for residents to return to their homes.

Despite these assurances, the long-term health effects of toxic chemical exposure are still uncertain, leaving residents with lingering concerns about their safety and well-being, but is Ohio safe right now?

Vinyl Chloride: Is Ohio safe right now?(Image via Youtube/ Sky News Australia)

Is Ohio Safe Right Now: What Chemicals Leaked In Ohio?

Vinyl chloride is a key ingredient in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is used in numerous plastic products. Exposure to the chemical can cause liver damage, immune system harm, and birth defects.

Even short-term exposure can lead to acute symptoms, such as coughing and dizziness. Long-term exposure increases the risk of cancer and other health problems.

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Vinyl Chloride Fire Releases Deadly Chemicals: Is Air In Ohio Safe?

The incident released high levels of vinyl chloride, causing the chemical to break down into other toxic byproducts, including phosgene, hydrogen chloride, carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and butyl acrylate. These chemicals can be deadly at high concentrations.

Although the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) did not detect contaminants at dangerous levels, it warned that residents within 10 miles of the site may still experience odors from the low odor threshold of the byproducts generated from the controlled burn.

The EPA stopped monitoring the air for hydrogen chloride and phosgene on the evening of February 13 but continued to monitor for other toxic chemicals.

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Bottled or Tap: Is Water In Ohio Safe?

Although officials have declared the municipal water supply safe to drink, residents must remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves and their families.

Purify water sources: Is Ohio safe right now? (Image via Pexels/Pixabay)

One of the most immediate actions that can be taken is to purify water sources. Hazardous chemicals released in the derailment can contaminate drinking water sources, posing a significant health risk.

To mitigate this risk, residents should consider water purification methods like boiling, distillation, and filtration, which can help remove potentially harmful chemicals and bacteria from drinking water. Immediate action is crucial to prevent further exposure and safeguard the health of the affected communities.