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Shelter-in-place advisory lifted in Paterson, N.J., after hazmat fire

Some residents in Paterson, New Jersey, were told to shelter in place Saturday due to a fire believed to involve hazardous materials.

The advisory was issued around 12:45 p.m. and lasted until about 6 p.m.

According to officials, air quality testing did not detect pollutants or anything corrosive or hazardous. Residents in the area are still advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke.

Unknown substance burning inside trailer, officials say

According to authorities, the fire broke out in a trailer at 198 Putnam St. just before 12:30 p.m.

"Once we came on location, it seems to be a silo. At this time, we're not exactly 100% sure exactly what it is, but there's something burning inside. A silo of some sort with some chemicals inside that's burning," Paterson Fire Department Deputy Chief Jose David Molina said.

Fire officials said at one point, air monitoring conducted at the scene did test positive for volatile organic compounds.

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Firefighters battle a potentially hazardous materials fire in Paterson, N.J. on Sept. 13, 2025.  CBS News New York

Officials said the fire has not spread outside the trailer at this time.

So far, there have been no reports of injuries.

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