Emergency Concerns

When abandoned mine-related problems occur suddenly, are life threatening, and require immediate asttention, the AMLRD staff can respond with emergency assistance. Emergencies typically associated with abandoned mines include:

• structure in danger of collapse due to mine subsidence
• subsidence pits that develop in the urban areas near homes
• methane gas leaks
• mine refuse fires
• open or improperly sealed mine shafts and slope entrances
• gas leaks from mining operations
• underground fires and coal refuse pile fires
• dilapidated mine buildings and equipment
• barren or eroding mine spoils and refuse piles
• hazardous highwalls left from mining operations
• acid mine drainage
• subsidence pits and sags

In the event of an emergency, the AMLRD can be reached at 618-650-3197 or 217-782-6791. If the situation requires immediate attention after business hours, contact the Illinois emergency Management Agency @ 800-782-7860.