Crews respond to hazmat incident at Healthy Living

The South Burlington Fire Department was dispatched to Healthy Living on Dorset Street Thursday afternoon for a hazmat incident. Crews responded to reports of smoke coming from a trash compactor around 4:15 p.m. The initial firefighters found no obvious smoke when they arrived, but further investigation revealed that a chemical reaction was occurring inside the trash compactor. Officials said someone had disposed of 34% hydrogen peroxide, which caused the reaction. Atmospheric metering determined there were no hazards to life or property. The Vermont Hazardous Materials Response Team was consulted and responded to the incident. Actions were taken to ensure there was no impact on the environment, waterways and wetlands. Most of the liquid was removed from the trash compactor, and the remaining product in the compactor was controlled with a neutralizing agent. Adjacent businesses and buildings were able to remain open throughout the incident. Once the chemical was neutralized, the business owner took over the cleanup. Crews remained on the scene until about 9:30 p.m. There were no injuries to firefighters or the public. Thirty-four percent hydrogen peroxide is a food-grade cleaning agent commonly diluted with water before use. Hydrogen peroxide itself is noncombustible; however, it releases oxygen, which may support combustion, intensify a fire, or cause spontaneous ignition, fire or explosion. Officials said the incident is a reminder that disposal of chemicals should be in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations and in consultation with your local solid waste district.