'Major progress' made on combating fire at Becker recycling plant
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"Major progress" has been made as firefighters work to control a fire that broke out at a Becker recycling plant, according to the Becker Police Department.
A passerby reported seeing the fire at the Northern Metal Recycling Plant at about 2:30 a.m. Tuesday. Police said the fire appeared to have started "in a debris pile of crushed up vehicles" in the plant's lot.
No one was hurt in the fire and no structures were damaged.
Thursday afternoon, the city said they don't believe any water runoff has gotten into offsite storm sewers or any other river or city water supply, as the business has designed drain ponds to capture the water. However, the water in those drain ponds will be tested.
The city also said air samples are still being tested at the site of the fire and areas downwind, but no results have been released yet. Authorities are also testing some black particles that residents have found on their property, but don't believe the particles pose any immediate health risk.
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Becker Public Schools close Thursday due to smoke from nearby fire
Fire at Becker recycling plant could last 'several more days,' authorities say
The Becker Police Department said a fire break was put in place Wednesday night to allow certain areas of the fire to burn out.
On Thursday morning, the department said firefighters continue to manage hot spots in the debris.
Police added that air quality in the area will be sampled by a third party.
Wednesday night, Becker Public Schools announced it would cancel classes Thursday due to smoke from the nearby fire.
A press release from the district said a change in wind direction and information from various agencies led to the school's decision to close.