Equipment failure at a refinery in Trainer causing strong odor in Pennsylvania and Delaware, officials say

TRAINER, Pa. (WPVI) — Officials in Pennsylvania and Delaware say they are getting calls Thursday morning about an odor in the air.

The Wilmington Fire Department said they are aware of a strong sulfur odor that is affecting areas of the city.

They say they’ve received roughly 20 calls to 911 regarding the odor within a 30-minute period. Newcastle County officials said the bulk of calls came from Fairfax, Delaware, area.

Officials say the odor is from an equipment failure at a refinery in Trainer, Pennsylvania. It happened around 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. Thursday.

“There was a power outage early this morning at the Monroe Energy Refinery in Marcus Hook, which led to a controlled burn-off that produced visible smoke and flames,” said Ed Beebe, Director of Delaware County Emergency Services. “Fortunately, wind conditions were favorable and helped minimize any impact to surrounding areas. We want to assure residents that there is no danger to the public.”

Although they say there is no hazard related to the odor, Newcastle Emergency Management is sending reverse 911 calls, telling ppl with respiratory issues to stay inside.

Officials are advising residents in the area to turn off their air conditioning and to close all doors and windows. They say turning off the air conditioner will prevent the odor from being brought inside by your HVAC system.

If there is any concern about an odor either outside or inside, officials say don’t hesitate to call 911.