New York, Nov. 21 (TNS): An explosion at a cosmetics factory in the Hudson Valley left dozens injured including four firefighters.
Some 30 people were injured including seven firefighters, authorities said. The firefighters were injured in an explosion that went off once they arrived at the scene. One person is unaccounted for, officials said.
Two of the firefighters were transported to Westchester for burn injuries, officials said. None of the injuries were considered life threatening.
The fire broke out at around 10:19 a.m. Monday at the Verla International plant on Temple Hill Road.
Two explosions went off at the factory, officials said, including an initial blast and fire, and a secondary explosion that occurred when firefighters arrived.
Officials ordered a shelter-in-place for a half-mile around the facility since there was initial concern about the chemicals located in the 52,000-square foot facility, which makes nail polish and perfume.
Subsequent testing suggested there was no contamination to the air after the explosion and the shelter-in-place has since been lifted.
More than 30 fire agencies from multiple counties were on the scene to battle the blaze.
Tall plumes of black smoke could be seen emerging from the facility.
Officials said the air in the area was not considered hazardous. Officials also said they were not concerned about drinking water contamination, and the water remained safe to drink.
