Chemical leak causes fumes, drainage issues in Forest

FOREST — Forest residents east of Gormley Park may experience slower water drainage, potential backflow and the odor of petroleum products in the coming days, Mayor Dean Hankins said Friday. Residents are encouraged to ventilate their homes if needed and to check sump pumps this weekend to help reduce further storm sewer issues. Those with questions can call the village Emergency Services Line at 419-429-9150. A resident in the 100 block of East Dixon Street on Wednesday evening first reported an odor of petroleum product in the storm sewer to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the mayor said. An investigation began Thursday and ceased shortly after nightfall, with officials knowing that fumes were in stable, noncombustible levels. The source of the chemical leak was found Friday morning near a building east of Gormley Park. Measures were taken to stop the flow of the product, Hankins said. An old tile was located, dug up, and blocked with absorbent booms. "Community assistance and understanding is greatly appreciated while local officials and the Ohio EPA continue mitigation efforts," Hankins said. "Throughout this process the Ohio EPA, Hardin County Health Department, and Emergency Management Agency (EMA), Forest-Jackson Fire Department, and the Village of Forest Maintenance Department have been on site and continue to work together on this situation."