Evacuation ordered after chemical spill at Anheuser-Busch brewery in Van Nuys
- Anheuser-Busch's facility in Van Nuys reported a fire involving hazardous materials on December 7, 2024.
- Approximately 10 gallons of hydrogen peroxide were involved in the fire, leading to evacuation orders by Los Angeles Fire Department.
- The evacuation was lifted at 2:30 p.m. with no reported injuries, illustrating effective emergency response.
On December 7, 2024, a significant incident occurred at the Anheuser-Busch brewing facility located in Van Nuys, California. The facility, which is known for producing popular beer brands such as Budweiser and Bud Light, experienced a chemical spill that necessitated an evacuation of the surrounding area. Employees reported a fire involving hazardous materials around noon, which led to a swift response from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). Upon arrival, firefighters discovered that the fire had already been partially extinguished. Nonetheless, the presence of hazardous materials required caution, prompting authorities to take immediate action. Investigations into the incident revealed that approximately 10 gallons of hydrogen peroxide were involved in the fire. As the fire department began to address the situation, hazmat teams were dispatched to the site to ensure that the chemical spill was contained and to prevent further risk to employees and nearby residents. The situation escalated as firefighters monitored the developing hazmat incident from the air, providing an additional layer of oversight to their ground operations. Given the potential dangers associated with hazardous materials, evacuation orders were issued as a precautionary measure. The LAFD took these steps seriously to safeguard the public and minimize any risks related to the chemical release. As the investigation and cleanup efforts continued, local authorities maintained a vigilant presence in the area to manage the situation effectively. Fortunately, it was reported that no injuries occurred during this episode. The affected area underwent a thorough assessment, and all evacuation mandates were lifted at around 2:30 p.m., allowing employees and nearby residents to return safely. The swift response from local fire services and the execution of proper safety protocols helped in averting what could have been a more serious disaster. This incident serves as a reminder of the hazards associated with industrial facilities and the importance of preparedness in handling such emergencies.