This daily update from the Unified Command Team keeps the public informed of the latest response activities following the Cantonment Digester Incident that occurred Sunday, Jan. 22. The Unified Command Team is comprised of International Paper, Escambia County EMA/Public Safety, Florida Department of Health, Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Unified Command Team’s top priority is the safety of our friends, neighbors and response personnel while ensuring the environment is fully protected.
COMMUNITY ALERT -- PLEASE SHARE
- The Unified Command Team has been made aware businesses are contacting community members potentially impacted by the Cantonment Digester Incident and offering various services including water testing, pressure washing and carpet cleaning for a fee. Please be aware International Paper, through the Unified Command Team, is not currently coordinating with any businesses other than Cotton and CTEH, who are managing the community cleanup. All community questions and concerns should be coordinated directly through the UC’s Joint Information Center available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-850-968-4208.
No Long-term Health Effects Expected from Cantonment Digester Incident
- As a result of the Jan. 22 digester incident at the Cantonment mill, partially digested wood pulp material was released in the surrounding area.
- According to Public Health experts consulted by the Unified Command Team there are no long-term health effects expected for those who might have been affected by the incident. However, citizens with health concerns should contact their Primary Care Physician.
- Unified Command representatives are collecting daily air, water and soil samples from various locations in the impacted area.
Clean-up Progress Continues
- Cleanup on 95A is complete and the road is reopened
- Cleanup is underway at approximately 41% of properties impacted
- Approximately 100 homes and businesses have experienced varying degrees of impact
- Nearly 200 individuals are working and visible in clean-up clothing; these are not hazmat suits
- On the ground teams are canvassing the area to ensure we are maintaining open and direct communications with all property owners impacted
- EPA representatives in neighborhoods today addressing concerns from residents
- Residents who believe their property may have been affected by the material released as a result of the incident and would like further information should call the Joint Information Center available 24/7 at 1-850-968-4208.
