PUTNAM COUNTY, Ga. — A fire at a chemical plant in Rockdale County is causing hazy conditions and a chlorine smell in some Central Georgia counties Tuesday morning.
However, according to Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills, the smell does not pose a "danger" to the general public.
Sills says the smell and haze — which stems from the BioLab fire in Rockdale County — has gotten weaker since this morning.
The wind blew the fumes from Rockdale to some northern counties of Central Georgia, including Putnam, Baldwin and Hancock County.
But Sills says partners at the Georgia and Rockdale Emergency Management Agencies say that the general public is not at risk.
However, Sills says people suffering from preexisting respiratory problems should stay inside, and if the smell is especially strong, Sills says it might be a good idea to stay inside as well.
According to the GEMA's Facebook page, they confirm the levels of chemicals in the air are unlikely to cause harm to most people, but they say they are still monitoring conditions.
However, they say if you're concerned, you can limit your time outdoors, close windows and doors and turn off any ventilation systems that bring in outside air.
They say if you experience any nose, throat or eye irritation or difficulty breathing, you can contact your health provider or the Georgia Poison Center at 404-856-6252.