NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih reassured the public on Wednesday night (Feb. 21) that recent air quality tests in Shenkeng District detected no signs of hydrogen fluoride or heavy metals, urging citizens not to worry.
A fire broke out at a warehouse housing electronic goods located in the district a day earlier, causing smoldering flames and a foul smell that affected the Greater Taipei Area.
Mayor Hou noted that environmental agencies continue to monitor the situation at the scene and confirmed that all crucial levels, including PM2.5, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide, are within standard ranges.
The Environmental Protection Bureau keenly examined potential issues related to hydrogen fluoride, conducting multi-point instrumental testing in the affected area, downwind locations, and nearby bodies of water. Results showed zero concentration of the substance in both air and water.
To prioritize public health, Mayor Hou advocated for a range of safety measures such as advising residents to stay away from the area, keep doors and windows shut, wear masks when outside, and seek medical advice if required.
Over the next three days, Shenkeng District's Health Center will allocate extra manpower to manage potential medical demands, treating patients with symptoms such as coughing, dry eyes, sore throats, and runny noses.
Eighteen other hospitals in the area have also been called on to respond to emergency treatment in New Taipei City and give particular care to patients with respiratory symptoms.
The city government continues the supervision of examining the air and water quality at the scene of the fire while also managing follow-up procedures to ensure the safety of the public.