SWANTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Public health officials are stepping in with guidance as cleanup is underway at a Swanton house fire site where toxic insulation was discovered.
Officials say there was more than just ash left behind during a fire on Liberty Street in Swanton. Toxic insulation discovered at the site could lead to health complications for nearby residents.
Cleanup crews at the house on Liberty Street that burned down in January found toxic insulation contaminated with asbestos in the rubble.
The material is called vermiculite. For decades, David Shea with Complete Demolition Services said the material was mined and used in houses before its health concerns were well known.
“The vermiculite that’s in this home has spread through all of the personal property and building materials; that makes it very hard to remediate,” Shea said.
If you live within 100 feet of the property, officials say keep your windows closed and limit your time outside, especially when it’s windy.
Swanton Town Health Officer Suzie Kelleher said sidewalks are closed to pedestrians.
“It’s a very busy road. It’s a thoroughfare for children and families when they walk in nice weather like today to and from school,” Kelleher said.
Shea said exposure to these materials is linked to serious illnesses, including cancer.
“Just one fiber is enough– if it’s in your lungs– to cause mesothelioma and mesothelioma is 100% lethal,” Shea said.
The focus is now on keeping the site as safe as possible for neighbors. Officials said that’s best done by installing sprinklers to keep the material wet until it can be properly disposed of.
“Vermiculite in particular, you want to keep it wet. It’s airborne. When it hits the wind and it is able to get up and out, and you breathe it in, that’s the problem,” Kelleher said.
Cleanup crews are working on plans for safe demolition and removal, which may involve double-lined dumpsters and input from an environmental firm. Officials explained the importance of bringing in a certified asbestos inspector before any demolition or renovation to ensure safety.
