Nine rushed to hospital with homes evacuated and residents urged to stay away amid poisonous gas fears
NINE people have been rushed to hospital as homes were evacuated and residents urged to stay away amid dangerous gas fears.
The possible carbon monoxide poisoning was reported on Firs Lane in Smethwick, Birmingham on Sunday, March 16.
Emergency services were called to the scene at around 6.24pm, where firefighters rescued one man from his home while another was led to safety.
The suspected carbon monoxide leak is believed to have impacted five houses, which have since been cleared of gases by a team of specialists.
A West Midlands Fire Service spokesperson told Birmingham Live: “At 6.27pm on Sunday, March 16, we were called to Firs Lane, Smethwick. Three fire engines responded.
“This was a suspected carbon monoxide leak, affecting residents of a row of five houses.
“Nine people were taken to hospital by ambulance. Firefighters wore breathing apparatus to conduct a thorough check of the premises.
“One man was rescued, and another was led to safety. Before leaving the scene, we used specialist equipment to ensure the premises were clear of any gases or fumes.”
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We were called to Firs Lane, Smethwick at 6.24pm last night (Sunday) to reports of residents feeling unwell from breathing in fumes in a building.
“Hazardous Area Response Team paramedics, two paramedic officers and three ambulances were sent to the scene.
“The team of ambulance staff worked rapidly to assess a number of residents at the scene.