Some LaFayette residents to receive reverse 911 calls about increased particulates from Barwick Mills fire

Firefighters move hoses away from the scene as the former Barwick Mills building in downtown LaFayette, Ga., continues to burn on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2015. The massive building caught fire Saturday, and EPA officials are concerned about water runoff that probably contains toxic chemicals from the fire. Firefighters move hoses away from the scene as the former Barwick Mills building in downtown LaFayette, Ga., continues to burn on Sunday, Nov. 15, 2015. The massive building caught fire Saturday, and EPA officials are concerned about water runoff that probably contains toxic chemicals from the fire.

By David Cobb November 15, 2015 2 min read

People who live near the site of the burning Barwick Mills plant in LaFayette, Ga. are being told to stay indoors tonight.

The Environmental Protection recommended that city officials issue the warning after EPA workers on the site noticed fluctuation in air quality readings.

Residents who are close enough to be affected are receiving reverse 911 calls, city manager David Hamilton said.

The elevated readings indicate that there are increased amounts of particulates in the air.

EPA officials have been on the site all day doing tests in the wake of the fire that engulfed the 50,000-plus square foot facility on Saturday.