IN National Guard Deployed As Mitchell Plant Fire Continues

MITCHELL, IN -- Indiana Department of Homeland Security officials say a large fire at a mulch company in Mitchell has led to the evacuation of several homes and the closing of area schools as law enforcement urges residents to avoid the heavy smoke-filled area. IDHS officials say the Indiana National Guard was deployed to Fibertech Friday to help put of the flames that started around 11 a.m. Thursday, causing limited visibility from the 7-acres of burning mulch.

IDHS says the Indiana National Guard is using aerial water drops while firefighters continue battling the blaze and windy conditions.

Eight firefighters have been taken to the hospital and treated for smoke inhalation, but are expected to fully recover.

Fibertech is a wood processing plant that supplies wood pallets and bulk mulch.

IDHS reports 12 to 15 families have evacuated their homes and residents in the surrounding area are asked to stay inside to avoid the smoke from the fire.

Poison Control encourages anyone exposed or near the smoke that are experiencing symptoms to contact their family physician as a precaution.

Here is an aerial view from photos taken overnight of the fire at a mulch company in Mitchell, Lawrence County.

Residents in the surrounding area are asked to stay inside to avoid the smoke from the fire. pic.twitter.com/GoFSG95tcr
— IN Homeland Security (@IDHS) April 13, 2018

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