Last week, the Contra Costa County Health Department's Community Alert Network system which automatically dials homes and businesses was activated when what was thought to be an explosion at the Dexter Hysol Plant on Willow Pass Road sent plumes of yellow vapor clouds into the air over homes in the area.

Residents and businesses were notified to close doors and windows, shut off their air-conditioners and stay indoors after a 55-gallon drum of chemicals expanded rapidly and sent clouds into the air.

Richmond, Pinole, Hercules, and Bay Point residents have had many scares because of chemical and gas leaks; there is a concentration of chemical and gas refineries in that area. This concentration has resulted in real estate prices that have dropped and many properties have lost value.

These refineries will not go away, one resident said. She said she is thinking about moving because of the health dangers.[] [Gibbs compiled story from several sources]