Executive Summary
- A large fire occurred at a commercial facility storing hazardous chemicals in Pinellas Park, Florida.
- Authorities issued a shelter-in-place advisory for residents in the surrounding area due to potential hazards.
- One firefighter was transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation during the response.
- Key roadways, including a section of 62nd Avenue, have been closed to facilitate emergency operations.
The Pinellas Park Fire Department responded to a significant commercial fire on Friday evening at a business storing hazardous chemicals, prompting authorities to issue a shelter-in-place advisory for nearby residents. The incident occurred in the 5300 block of 62nd Avenue North, with one firefighter being transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation.
Officials have advised residents in the area between 58th Street and 49th Street, and from 62nd Avenue to 70th Avenue, to remain indoors due to the potential hazard. A shelter-in-place order requires individuals to get inside a sturdy building, bring pets indoors, and seal all openings, including doors, windows, and ventilation systems, until the advisory is lifted.
In response to the emergency, authorities have closed 62nd Avenue between 58th Street and 49th Street. The Pinellas Park Police Department is on scene assisting with traffic control and securing the area.
According to an update issued at 9:30 p.m., the shelter-in-place advisory remained in effect. The update also noted that any evacuation order was not active, clarifying the current directive for residents is to remain indoors.