Apex, N.C. — A hazardous-waste handler in Apex is reimbursing residents affected by last month's chemical fire that forced thousands of residents to leave their homes in the middle of the night.

Environmental Quality Industrial Services has sent out about 200 checks so far to displaced residents for lodging and food expenses during the Oct. 5 fire and the days afterward.

Each check averages about $150.

Residents must send in receipts and fill out paperwork to qualify. For more information, call 888-675-1680.