"Louisiana Chemical Plant Fire Triggers Explosions, Prompts Lengthy Indoor Stay for Residents"

A fire at a Louisiana chemical plant triggered explosions, causing flames and smoke to billow into the air. Residents within a half-mile of the plant were urged to shelter indoors for several hours and turn off their air conditioners. The fire started in an area handling ethylene oxide, a flammable and toxic chemical, but no injuries were reported. Dow Chemical, along with environmental officials, is monitoring air quality, and no hazards have been detected so far. Ethylene oxide can cause lung injuries and is linked to cancer with long-term exposure.