Update
U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency has begun to remove and dispose of asbestos-contaminated
rubble and debris from the site of a recent fire on Fifth Street in Calumet,
Michigan. On May 21, a fire destroyed three buildings including several local apartments
and businesses near the intersection of Fifth and Portland Streets.
EPA
will monitor air quality during the cleanup and backfill open basements after
the cleanup is completed this fall. Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral
that was often used in construction in the mid-20th century. Breathing high
levels of asbestos fibers for a long period of time can cause scar-like tissue to
develop in the lungs and the lining surrounding the lungs.
Portions
of Portland Street, Fourth Street, and part of the parking lot at Agassiz Park
will be closed during the cleanup.
Background
On May 21, a fire destroyed three buildings, including several apartments and commercial businesses. An assessment of the rubble resulting from the fire found that the debris is contaminated with asbestos.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was often used in construction in the mid-20th century. Breathing high levels of asbestos fibers for a long period of time can cause scar-like tissue in the lungs and the lining surrounding the lungs.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is working with the Village of Calumet, Calumet Township, Houghton County, and the Michigan Department Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, or EGLE.