Last updated: 01/08/2019, 3:19 PM

Carbon monoxide poisoning at Hackney block of flats

07/01/2019 03:38
Hackney
Hazardous materials
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Two fire engines, two fire rescue units and around 20 firefighters were called to deal with reports of raised carbon monoxide levels at a block of flats on Hawkwood Mount, Hackney.

Detection equipment showed elevated levels of carbon monoxide in two flats.

Two women and two children were led to safety by London Ambulance Service crews. They were suspected to be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning and were taken to hospital.

Five people self-evacuated from the other affected flat.

Firefighters carried out a full sweep of the building and evacuated a further six people from the remaining flats. Fire crews ventilated the building, crews monitored the carbon monoxide levels until it was deemed safe.

Firefighters want everyone to make sure they have a carbon monoxide detectors in their home. Watch Manager Graham Beers, who was at the scene, said:

“Carbon monoxide fumes are silent, highly poisonous fumes that are produced by the incomplete burning of fossil fuels. You can't taste, see or smell CO fumes, but it can kill in minutes. It is vital that you have carbon monoxide alarms in your home so that you have can have an early warning and hopefully avoid injury.”

The Brigade was called at 0338 and the incident was over for firefighters at 0528. Fire crews from Stoke Newington, Bethnal Green and Euston fire stations attended the scene.