A potentially hazardous property in Howell is safer for residents nearby. According to a notice to Howell residents, new activities are underway to better protect those who live and work nearby and find out what's inside hundreds of barrels filled with chemicals that have been sitting on the land for years.

Work has begun on site by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials sampling and identifying potentially hazardous materials, according to the Howell Township Office of Emergency Management. The laboratory products removed from that structure by the owner of the property have been placed back inside the warehouse for testing and safeguarding.

Air monitors have been placed at two locations outside of the property to continuously monitor air quality levels. The drums are being arranged and sorted, and plastic has been placed in any areas where drums are leaking. Dangers of a fire or evacuation have been reduced but not eliminated.

The last time News 12 New Jersey visited the area was on March 27. Only one security vehicle was seen outside of the property on 15 Marl Road.