The city of Benicia about Sunday morning issued an advisory for taxpayers with respiratory
difficulties to remain indoors because of an episode involving emissions in the Valero
Benicia Refinery.
The focus of particulates in the refinery is now higher over the previous 24 hours, based on
an advisory sent from 7:30 a.m. from the city.
The emissions include coke, a byproduct of the refining process that’s composed mainly of
carbon contamination, according to the city.
Thus far, testing indicates no heavy metals in damaging levels from the emissions, however, also the smoke might lead to distress and may aggravate respiratory conditions
like asthma, city officials said.
People that have respiratory difficulties should go indoors, close all windows and doors, and fireplace dampers, as stated by the city advisory.
Cracks around windows and doors could be secured with tape or moist towels.
The city has asked healthy people to limit outdoor activities.
On Saturday, fire officers said they had been tracking the Valero Refinery flue gas scrubber and so have been coordinating Solano County Environmental Health and Bay Area Air Quality Management District.
The city’s Facebook page has more details that the residents can look up to.