Passerby reported a 5 gallon container spilled on Wilson Ave, at 4th St. He stated it smelled like benzene. The Bend Fire Department responded and identified the product as CS 309-25, a concrete sealing agent. Command consulted by phone with Salem HazMat Team, who recommended using an absorbent to clean material off the street, Bend Street Dept. responded with appropriate absorbent. The material is moderately combustible and a biological irritant. Possibly 4 gallons were spilled. The bucket fell from an unknown vehicle which did not remain on scene. It is common for people to be unaware when something falls off the back of their truck. Bend Fire reminds people to ensure that all items are securely fastened or contained within a truck or other vehicle. As a motorist, if you see that a container has fallen into the street and is leaking, please do not drive through the spilled material. If it is a hazardous material, your tires will spread it farther, making clean up more difficult, and it may be hazardous to be exposed to.
Photo credits: Dave Howe- crews laying down absorbent on hazmat spill
