Carbon monoxide leak – Shepherd's Bush

Firefighters were called to a suspected carbon monoxide leak at a house on Macfarlane Road in Shepherd’s Bush.  

Crews rescued two women from the first floor of the building, assisted by London Ambulance Service paramedics who took them both to hospital. A further two women left the property before the Brigade arrived and were also taken to hospital and seven more people from neighbouring properties were treated on scene.  

Firefighters worked with partners to carry out a systematic sweep of the building and identified elevated readings of carbon monoxide (CO). Crews ventilated the property and ensured no elevated readings remained before leaving the scene.  

Last year, firefighters attended around 1,995 carbon monoxide-related incidents in London. The Brigade is warning people to ensure they have working CO alarms in their homes.  

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “You can’t taste, see or smell CO fumes, but it can kill in minutes.  

“It’s really important to fit a CO alarm in all rooms containing fuel burning appliances, ensuring that the alarm is able to be heard throughout the property. When sleeping, it’s important that your alarm can wake you if it sounds.  

“It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and learn what to do if you suspect someone may be affected.” 

The Brigade’s Control Officers were called at 2223 and sent crews from Hammersmith, Wembley and Euston fire stations to the scene. The incident was over for firefighters by 0055.  

CO poisoning symptoms: 

These symptoms also apply to your pets – so keep an eye on them too. Poisoning symptoms can easily be confused with just feeling unwell, which is why CO poisoning is so dangerous, and so often missed.