Fire at Calverton Recycling Plant Under Control; Environmental Concerns Raised

Firefighters Battle Blaze at Crown Recycling Facility

• 🚒 A major fire broke out at the Crown Recycling facility in Calverton, Long Island, around 2:00 AM.
• 💥 Over 30 volunteer fire departments responded to the scene, working through the early morning hours.
• 🎯 By 8:00 AM, the fire was reported to be about 85% contained, with crews dousing hot spots.

Environmental and Safety Precautions

• ⚠️ The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is on-site, evaluating potential offsite impacts.
• 💨 Residents in the rural neighborhood are advised to keep their windows closed due to smoke.
• 😷 Decontamination equipment is present, and personnel were seen wearing masks near the scene.

Recycling Plant Operations and Concerns

• ♻️ Crown Recycling facility handles scrap metal, waste, and demolition debris, including asbestos.
• 🏙️ The facility serves Riverhead Town and the five boroughs of New York City.
• 💧 Concerns include potential impacts from smoke and water runoff from firefighting efforts.

Official Updates Expected

• 🗣️ Officials from fire departments, the DEC, and Riverhead are expected to provide an update at 10:00 AM.