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2 homes uninhabitable from Woods Cross explosion
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John | 9:52 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Rattled the house....pictures fell off the walls.
I hope no one died in this explosion.
I hope no one died in this explosion.
Close it Down! | 9:53 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
How many more issues have to occur at this refinery before it gets shut down?
Silver Eagle has tried to band-aid fix their issues for years. Enough is
enough.
Comments continue below
Annie | 10:00 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
From what I've heard there are a number of windows blown out in WX and some
structure damage to houses nearer to the refinery. I hope all civilians are ok
and accounted for.
Again? | 10:05 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Don't they have a fire or explosion every few months in that area. The
Flying J has been on fire several times.
Ummm...a "reported" fire? | 10:08 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
It seems to me the photo alone is enough to verify that it happened.
breathe in that fresh Utah air!! | 10:29 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
We felt our house shake and looked out to see the black smoke coming from all
the refineries, and I turned to my husband and asked why the heck we live so
close to so many of these places.
School Children | 10:36 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
What is being done to protect students with breathing disorders? Are students
inhaling toxic fumes?
Anonymous | 10:42 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I was about a mile away at work when it exploded, the whole building shook
violently like a truck ran into it. My sister lives about three blocks away
from the refinery and called me up quite upset. Time to move.
Enough | 10:49 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I second the vote from Close It Down!
Two explosions in 2009 from the same refinery? I've lived in WX for 20 years - there are explosions/fires every so often, its understandable...they're working with large amounts of flammable materials...it will happen. But this refinery seems to have many more issues than the others in the area, and it is by far the smallest of the refineries in the area. There needs to be serious thoughts of new management or shutting it down completely.
Two explosions in 2009 from the same refinery? I've lived in WX for 20 years - there are explosions/fires every so often, its understandable...they're working with large amounts of flammable materials...it will happen. But this refinery seems to have many more issues than the others in the area, and it is by far the smallest of the refineries in the area. There needs to be serious thoughts of new management or shutting it down completely.
Brother Chuck Schroeder | 10:51 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Several residents have called the Deseret News saying they could feel their
homes shake about 9:15 a.m. ?
did THEY forget the phone number to 911 ?.
The news don't put out a fire, nor a BIG BOOM.
did THEY forget the phone number to 911 ?.
The news don't put out a fire, nor a BIG BOOM.
Close it Down? | 11:28 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
How about you either grow up or learn to ride your bike from now on?
Refineries are necessary to fuel America's highly materialistic nature. If you have a problem with the risks involved I suggest you start promoting/funding some greener alternatives.
Refineries are necessary to fuel America's highly materialistic nature. If you have a problem with the risks involved I suggest you start promoting/funding some greener alternatives.
J DUB | 11:34 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Hey "Close it Down", that's a great knee-jerk reaction but have
you considered the bigger picture in removing a major refinery? Supply/demand
and the resultant effect on pricing? How about local jobs? They need to
effectively address their deficiencies and stay on-line. They also need to keep
safety precautions in place and pay appropriate fines for violations, and cover
any clean-up costs within the community.
And "School Children", you sound like a wonderfully over-dramatic helicopter parent. It was an ACCIDENT. This was not business as usual, so there were NO protections in place for anyone in the community, including school children. Yes, they were likely inhaling some increased level of pollutants for a very limited period of time this morning. An isolated, brief exposure shouldn't pose any long term problems for these kids. But from your obvious level of concern, maybe home schooling from a log cabin in the upper valleys of the north slope of the Uintas would be a good fit for you?
And "School Children", you sound like a wonderfully over-dramatic helicopter parent. It was an ACCIDENT. This was not business as usual, so there were NO protections in place for anyone in the community, including school children. Yes, they were likely inhaling some increased level of pollutants for a very limited period of time this morning. An isolated, brief exposure shouldn't pose any long term problems for these kids. But from your obvious level of concern, maybe home schooling from a log cabin in the upper valleys of the north slope of the Uintas would be a good fit for you?
Anonymous | 11:35 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Brother Schroeder made a good point. Media is not the one to call to find out
what happened minutes after it happened, and most at all, people should be more
concerned about their surroundings instead of reporting news. Living close to a
refinery is a risk, a life one. You never know when seconds can be decisive in
perserving your life. Find out first by calling 911 or looking outside if you
need to run right away.
That refinery should be moved to another location ASAP.
That refinery should be moved to another location ASAP.
re:Bro Chuck | 11:53 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
So bored and looking for something to expound on? So anxious to read your own
words in the paper that you have lost the ability to be coherent?
People called the newspaper, probably after they either called 911, or knew they we safe...
"The news don't put out a fire, nor a BIG BOOM."
--What does that even mean?
Do yourseld a favor, get a hobby, get a life, do something productive with yourself...
People called the newspaper, probably after they either called 911, or knew they we safe...
"The news don't put out a fire, nor a BIG BOOM."
--What does that even mean?
Do yourseld a favor, get a hobby, get a life, do something productive with yourself...
Smoke | 11:57 a.m. Nov. 4, 2009
That smoke was not from refinery fire, that was from the Holly refinery in Woods
Cross
Jo | 12:09 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I agree with J DUB. Maybe people who purchased homes in that area should have
considered the risks that are associated with living next to an oil refinery. If
you don't like it move....instead of acting all shocked and shaken when
something bad happens. I'm willing to bet the refinery was there before
most of the houses so maybe the houses should be relocated.
James | 12:13 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Brother Hunts windows were blown out, wow
Collin | 12:18 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Who builds houses close to a refinery? Someone ought to ask the Woods Cross city
counsel who approved the residential zoning next to a refinery.
Sara | 12:31 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
""I want to make it very clear to everybody that they're safe in
their house. This fire is under control," Bassett said."
Obviously not if 3 of the homes are "uninhabitable"
Obviously not if 3 of the homes are "uninhabitable"
have a heart | 12:39 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
What a scary thing. I think a few reasons it's getting so much attentions
is A. nothing exciting ever happens in Davis County, and B. hello? A refinery
exploded people! And for all those who think it's not a big deal at all,
whether homes are built right next to it or not it is still very scary. People
have the right to be upset. If we wanted to live somewhere where these was no
danger at all we wouldn't be able to live on this planet. if there was an
earthquake you would probably be saying, "well then why did you build a
house there?" have a heart guys. And I am sorry for those whose homes were
damaged, good luck with everything!
Just Me | 12:44 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
The refinery looks like it should pay for those people out of homes to get new
ones and woods cross city needs to help as well.
There ya go, Collin | 12:46 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
EXACTLY. Who allows homes to be built so close to a refinery? Houses and
schools shouldn't be built next to a refinery in the first place. A
no-brainer.
have a heart | 12:48 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
hey come on guys. a refinery exploded. And whether there are houses nearby or
not, it's a scary thing. If we all expected to build our homes in a 100%
safe place we wouldn't be living on this planet. I suppose if there was an
earthquake you would say "well why would you build your house there in the
first place?" or "i bet that mountain was there way before you built
your houses there. they should move all the homes" come on lets just not
freak out at all the residents. We should just be grateful no one got hurt. And
for those whose homes were damaged I wish you the best of luck!
Sid | 12:52 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Hey Jo and Collin, do you know anything about this area, or are you just
assuming? The homes that are just east of the refineries have been there a long
time; I suspect that the refinery expanded or was built after the area was built
up.
The refinery was there-- | 12:52 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Hey whiners!!! That refinery was there long before any of the houses were
built...
When people bought the houses, did they miss seeing the refinery??? Did they not smell a strange odor??? The area around a refinery stinks...
They got cheap lots and took a chance and now want to close the refinery????
Close the houses!!! Move!!! What's wrong with you people?????
When people bought the houses, did they miss seeing the refinery??? Did they not smell a strange odor??? The area around a refinery stinks...
They got cheap lots and took a chance and now want to close the refinery????
Close the houses!!! Move!!! What's wrong with you people?????
EXPLODING NEWS! | 12:56 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
"willing to bet the refinery was there before most of the houses so maybe
the houses should be relocated"
Well, 3 homes have officially been relocated! LOL ( I do feel bad about those families who will have to live at Motel 6 for 6 months)
Well, 3 homes have officially been relocated! LOL ( I do feel bad about those families who will have to live at Motel 6 for 6 months)
Valerie | 12:57 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I live a half-mile from this refinery and was home when the explosion happened.
It was SO loud, I actually took cover thinking that the house was coming down on
my head. Can't imagine what nearby residents went through this morning! The
Silver Eagle refinery is a problem. A big one- that needs to be addressed by
this community. I don't feel safe being in my house today wondering if the
gas lines are now compromised given the force of the explosion, or when the next
explosion or fire will happen. Beyond that, the complete lack of communication
to the surrounding neighborhoods is unacceptable to say the least. I left my
house when it happened. I came back at 11 am. The Davis County Government
called me at 10:46 - with NO message!!! Why is it that the school district can
leave an automated voicemail message but the county can't when delivering
emergency communications???? It is SO antiquated. Come on Davis County! Get
your act together and protect your residents!!!
heartless | 1:01 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I wonder if the same comments will be posted when homes are damaged and people
are killed by a 7.0 earthquake? You all knew where you were living? What a sad
show of compassion in a tragic situation!
Re: The refinery was there- | 1:18 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Most of us in Southern Davis County do not mind the refineries and understand
the risks involved, and I am not in favor of removing every one of them due to
one incident. However, with the number of incidents this particular refinery has
had over the years, there needs to be some kind of action taken to ensure the
safety of its workers and those residents who live nearby.
i live it i love | 1:25 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
it now let it rip!
Anonymous | 1:27 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I agree that what happened this morning is scary...but comparing broken windows
and damaged property, which is terrible, to people being killed in a 7.0
earthquake is a bit overly dramatic and extreme dont you think?
AMYchanLOVESyou | 1:39 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I go to Woods Cross High School, which is very close to that refinery. When the
explosion occured, I honestly thought that the ceiling was going to cave in. The
windows looked like they were almost blown in, and the power flickered for a few
moments. Our desks were shaken up a little by the explosion, and the school
almost called for a lock down [I'm not sure why..?]. Then we all saw the
black smoke when we looked out the windows. It was really scary overall.
SchoolMom | 1:41 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I feel bad for those that have lost their homes or have damaged homes because of
this tragedy. I am sure it was a scary moment as well for those living in the
area. Having said that, people can not forget the responsibility that they have
to make decisions for themselves. We live in the freest country in the world
and can make decisions as to where we live, but also KNOWING and RECOGNIZING the
risks involved in those decisions. Both the refinery and the homeowners have a
shared responsibility in any damages occurred.
BAM | 1:46 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I grew up a field away from the refinery in the 50's & 60's and
early 70's, while our family lived there I remember at least 3 explosions,
so I see somethings have not changed in 50 years. I am sorry for the residents
who have lost their homes or will have to re-build, where their homes are now
were farms and fields.
As far as buying and home so close to a refinery, well, look around, we all pretty much live near a fault line, silly of us to have home so close to something that could damage our homes and lives.
Good luck to all the homeowners.
As far as buying and home so close to a refinery, well, look around, we all pretty much live near a fault line, silly of us to have home so close to something that could damage our homes and lives.
Good luck to all the homeowners.
Pagan | 1:55 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I hope everyone is alright. I will pray (Yes, I pray) that there is no loss of
life.
If anyone needs lodging I would recommend calling the red cross. I have contacted them with apartment implosions before and they try to find rental properties to relocate people in this situation.
If anyone needs lodging I would recommend calling the red cross. I have contacted them with apartment implosions before and they try to find rental properties to relocate people in this situation.
Cynthia | 3:06 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
I'm sorry, but where are the REPURCUSSIONS for a business that is clearly
and CONSISTENTLY violating EPA and OSHA laws? There was a serious explosion
today, who knows what will happen next month or the months after that? The
Silver Eagle Refinery needs to update its infrastructure or be punished to the
point that this will NOT happen again. No more 'accidents!' Why
don't the leaders of Woodscross city take some action and try to protect
their constituents? The whole situation is rediculous, it should never have
gotten this far.
I live in Woods Cross and... | 3:14 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
was home at the time of the incident. I heard a huge woosh/hissing sound and
felt the earthquake from the direction of Silver Eagle. It rattled my house,
and the pictures on the walls. The sound of furniture dancing across the tiles
was loud and intense. I knew it was the refinery exploding, again. I rushed to
the window and saw white smoke begin to rise, it quickly turned into thick black
gray smoke. It looks like my house and the neighbors escaped damage, but
that's not official yet. Across the street the garage door was open and
it in now hanging crooked, which it wasn't before. I think the explosion
did that. Oh, my power didn't go off.
To Smoke: | 3:21 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Holly had a plume too, after Silver Eagle, I think it was because of the power
shutting off. I saw the smoke at Silver Eagle and Holly.
Anonymous | 3:40 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
The thing I noticed in the pictures was this was a beautiful home, marred by the
view of a refinery in the backyard. Glad no one was injured. I thought it was
idiotic for the man to say the explosion was dramatic and then it was over.
I'm sure those whose homes are uninhabitable don't think it's
over. It will be months of rebuilding, not to mention the emotional toll this
will take. Personally, I don't think homes should be built that close to a
refinery. It's just an accident waiting to happen and make next time
people will die. It isn't worth it. Glad I don't live there anymore.
Felix Urioste | 4:13 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
The stench and fumes those refineries put off have got to cause cancer.
Sounds like 5 people get new homes, hopefully the refinery's insurance premiums are paid up.
Sounds like 5 people get new homes, hopefully the refinery's insurance premiums are paid up.
WX Resident | 4:16 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
The Holly refinery (used to be Phillips) just north of Silver Eagle seems to
operate just fine and without incident and has done so for as long as I can
remember (it seems there was a nice sized fire there in the 80s but it was
managed without damaging any neighboring property). Obviously a refinery can be
operated safely...why can't Silver Eagle seem to do it right? Is it the
quality of their employees or the quality of the materials that they are given?
I'd be curious to hear from an anonymous employee on this issue.
RE: J DUB | 4:28 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Closing down the smallest one in Utah that obviously has some serious issues
wouldn't change the gas prices, how silly. However, closing down a very
poorly run and managed facility might save some lives. Who knows what type of
air quality violations they have if they can't even stop the place from
blowing up! Everyone along the Wasatch Front is breathing this crap in 24/7.
joey | 4:41 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
The biggest question after accounting for human safety is HOW zoning was
approved to build a residential subdivision in the middle of a petroleum
field...after living in South Louisiana for many years it is a no
brainer...ground seepage alone would be a cause for great concern.
RE: Close it Down? | 4:45 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Nobody is questioning the importance of the refineries in the area. But its
foolish to blame this damage on people who built/bought their homes so close to
a refinery. There are several refineries in this area that are very close to
residential areas. However, this is only refinery I can remember that has
actually caused evacuations and damage to homes. Once is forgiveable, but this
is becoming a pattern with this company. Holly, Flying J, and other companies in
the area have shown that large refineries can be operated near homes without
issues. What's wrong with Silver Eagle?
Did you know | 5:04 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
DO you know when the last "new" refinery was build in the United
States - a lot of us were not born yet.
Just wait.... | 5:08 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
...for the residents in this area to have their homeowners' insurance
cancelled due to "high risk".
You don't think so? We had a shower fix drip drip drip (in a tiled shower!) while we were gone for a few months, and after paying the claim to fix our bathroom, the insurance company cancelled our policy. We now have to pay four times as much for half as much coverage.
We fixed our drip. The homeowners in that area can't move the refinery.
You don't think so? We had a shower fix drip drip drip (in a tiled shower!) while we were gone for a few months, and after paying the claim to fix our bathroom, the insurance company cancelled our policy. We now have to pay four times as much for half as much coverage.
We fixed our drip. The homeowners in that area can't move the refinery.
Mike | 5:18 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Having worked at all of those refineries. I can tell you that all are
maintained poorly. All of them are very unsafe. All the tanks leak, pipes
leak, state and federal inspectors must be getting kick backs as they rarely if
ever pressure the management to get stuff fixed.
Time to pressure the state to make them move all of those refineries out to the west like atleast 50 miles. Dell, Utah is 50 miles out and would be a perfect location for those refineries.
Time to pressure the state to make them move all of those refineries out to the west like atleast 50 miles. Dell, Utah is 50 miles out and would be a perfect location for those refineries.
re; joey | 5:36 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
Amen!
Live in Woods Cross too | 5:45 p.m. Nov. 4, 2009
It doesn't matter who was where 1st. The refineries have responsability to
maintain be in good repair and be safe not only for the surrounding residents
but for their workers as well. If Silver Eagle cannot clean up their act and
keep their refinery safe they need to be closed down. No other type of business
would be allowed to pose a threat like that to the public and stay opened. How
many restaurants are closed down due to one or two peple getting sick? Come on
Silver Eagle clean it up or shut it down. The stench produced by this refinery
is also out of control
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