MOSS LANDING >> The Environmental Protection Agency has started phase one of the clean up process at the Moss Landing Battery Plant in the wake of the days-long fire that started Jan. 16.

During the county briefing Wednesday, on-scene coordinator Eric Sandusky said crews have started delinking batteries — disconnecting them from one another — in hopes of reducing the risk of large fires and flare-ups. Officials explained that delinking the batteries reduces the risk of thermal runway, when the battery heats up too quickly, because the risk is higher when the battery is damaged.

“The delinking process reduces the risk of large fires, but there is always a risk that a damaged battery can heat up too quickly,” Sandusky said.The crews are also dealing with debris on the ground and the threat of what’s left of the building where the fire occurred collapsing. Sandusky said there is currently the risk of a wall toppling over and there are about 50% of the remaining batteries left to be delinked.

Sandusky estimated it would take crews about seven to 10 days to complete phase one. The next steps would include removing the batteries from the building and figuring out how to dispose of them.

“We’re very early in the recycling phase,” Sandusky said. “This is going to be a long process.”

A private fire company remains onsite to watch the building around the clock, though the North County Fire District takes over when they are on the scene.

There has been public concern about the smoke drifting into the air and how that would affect air quality, especially after a flare-up two weeks ago. Many complained of smoke and were advised to close their windows and doors. Officials have reaffirmed that there is no risk to public health at this time.

Environmental Protection Agency officials said air monitoring continues 24 hours a day, and at the end of each day samples are sent to a lab. They are also working with the county’s environmental department.

Sandusky said these flare ups are common in lithium battery fires, and are being exacerbated by the rainy season.

The county health department is launching a community survey to ask residents about their experience during the fire and any symptoms they may be experiencing at http://www.mtyhd.org/MLFireSurvey. The survey is open to anyone who wants to participate and will be available through March 14.

There is also an application to submit a report to the Monterey County Health Department’s Environmental Health Bureau online at http://www.mtyhd.org/mosslanding-concern-form or by leaving a voice message at (831) 755-4505.