Fire call, (Central Nebraska Today)
HOLSETIEN — An anhydrous ammonia leak occurred at the CPI Plant in Holstein during the evening hours of Tuesday, Aug. 19.
According to Adams County Emergency Management, at 10:20 p.m., a 911 call was dispatched for a leak at the CPI Plant in Holstein at 9870 Main Ave.
The original call indicated there was a small spill that needed assistance from the Holstein Volunteer Fire Department to hose down. Upon arrival, the Holstein Fire Chief found a large active anhydrous leak from a cylinder within the plant.
Holstein Fire immediately requested assistance from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Adams County Emergency Management, Roseland Fire, Kenesaw Fire, Blue Hill Fire, Hastings Rural Fire and the Nebraska State Fire Marshal. CPI representatives arrived on scene shortly later.
Adams County Emergency Management said the initial details are not confirmed yet, but one CPI employee was injured and taken by ambulance to Mary Lanning Hospital. Their condition is unknown at this time, but the injuries are believed to be non-life threatening.
Evacuation was initiated for the homes to the southwest of the plant and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office began notifying these homes and requesting they evacuate.
Adams County Emergency Management sent out an IPAWS alert to the residents of Holstein requesting they shelter in place, close all windows and doors, turn off their air conditioning and close all vents.
The National Weather Service – Hastings office provided detailed and updated weather conditions during the incident. Due to the low winds and high humidity, the release of gas stayed within a small area but there was a hazard to anyone within contact.
A fire department team was established and utilized proper tactics to reach the anhydrous tank and safely turn off the valves.
An all clear signal was sent out to the area residents at 11:42 p.m.
