Industrial Fire Response Continues at Critical Mineral Recovery

Madison Co. Mo. (KFMO) - The Fredericktown Fire Department continues to work closely with specialized industrial firefighters and federal agencies as they manage the ongoing fire response at the Critical Mineral Recovery plant on Highway 00. As of 4 p.m. on Friday, November 1, local fire crews are supported by contractors experienced in hazardous material fire mitigation, alongside state and federal officials, who are working to ensure community safety.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has significantly increased its monitoring efforts in response to community concerns. Under EPA Region 7, both mobile and stationary air monitoring systems are active around the clock, testing for a range of volatile organic compounds, hydrogen fluoride, hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. While an initial exceedance of particulate matter action levels was recorded within the evacuation zone immediately north of the plant on October 30, no further exceedances have been detected. The EPA has also advised residents to keep windows closed, turn off air conditioners, and avoid any visible smoke plumes from the plant.

Fredericktown schools were closed on Friday, November 1, as a precaution due to residual odors from the fire. The EPA has stationed air monitoring equipment at local schools and will continue to coordinate with Fredericktown response agencies, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as fire crews work to ensure containment.

To support affected community members, Critical Mineral Recovery has opened a Community Information Hotline at 314-576-9134 to connect residents with resources and answer questions. Fredericktown Fire personnel will remain on-site for any developments, ready to alert the public to any new risks.