ROCKTON, Ill. — Gov. JB Pritzker announced Monday he activated the State Emergency Operation Center and Illinois National Guard to a large chemical fire in Rockton.
Shortly after 7:00 a.m. Monday, a large fire broke out at Chemtool, 1165 Prairie Hill Road in Rockton.
Chemtool is the largest manufacturer of grease in the United States.
Out of an abundance of caution, residents have been evacuated within a two-mile radius of the Chemtool facility.
Residents are also being asked to use masks or face coverings in the area for the time being to prevent soot inhalation.
“I am monitoring this situation closely and will make all resources available to the surrounding communities as we work to keep people safe,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Teams from multiple state agencies are on the ground and coordinating closely with local authorities and we will continue to make additional information available as soon we have it.”
Chemtool is part of the Tier II program, which is an annual federal report that is mandatory for companies that store hazardous materials.
This report is used by state and federal authorities to track and enforce rules related to the storing of hazardous materials in a facility.
