[Online Exclusive]: Streets closed for hazardous material inspection

A truck potentially containing hazardous material is currently
being inspected by Los Angeles Fire Department hazardous materials
officials, resulting in a number of street closures around
campus.

Earlier this afternoon, a truck attempted to drop off materials
at the UCLA S.A.F.E. Collection Center, a household hazardous
materials drop-off center which is open near Parking Lot 8 on
Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, said Phil Hampton, UCLA
spokesman.

The crews working at the site determined that the truck
contained something other than common household hazardous waste, at
which point fire and police authorities were alerted, Hampton said.
The fire department was dispatched at 3:46 p.m., according to fire
department spokesman Jim Wells.

Wells said two hazardous materials teams were inspecting the
truck’s contents and were trying to determine what was in
some containers in the truck. Wells said the container has not been
breached and there was no smoke or smells.

Officials have blocked off portions of a number of streets in
the Westwood area, including Gayley and Strathmore avenues, and are
not letting pedestrians through, leaving students and local
residents locked out of their apartments and fraternity houses.
Police said Lot 8 may be closed until 8 p.m.

Compiled by Bruin senior staff. Check the Daily Bruin
tomorrow for updates.