CHEMICAL EXPLOSION IN CALIFORNIA. DOZENS WENT TO THE HOSPITAL.
A mysterious chemical mixture burst into flames at a Ventura County waste facility on Tuesday, sending dozens to hospitals for decontamination and emptying homes and businesses for a mile around the plant before the danger eased, authorities said.
A vacuum truck exploded into flames about 3:45 a.m. at the Santa Clara Waste Water Co., spreading about 1,200 gallons of a mysterious waste chemical mixture that contained sulfuric acid and a highly combustible organic peroxide, fire officials said.
"As the liquid began to dry out, the (fire engine) companies on scene noticed that it was very unstable and reactive," Ventura County fire Capt. Mike Lindbery said. "As they stepped on it or tried to move their engine, it would spontaneously ignite under the tire of the engine or their boots."
No burn injuries were reported, but two drivers on a vacuum truck, three firefighters, hospital medical staff and a few nearby residents were washed down or treated for complaints such as breathing problems, red eyes and skin rashes, said Lori Ross, a spokeswoman for the Ventura County Fire Department.
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