TOLEDO, Ohio — Two apartment buildings in Toledo were evacuated Thursday morning after residents and emergency responders were exposed to toxic fumes caused by the accidental mixing of cleaning chemicals, officials said.
The Toledo Fire and Rescue Department (TFRD) responded to the Westland Gardens apartment complex following reports of hazardous fumes. Upon arrival, firefighters found that the chemical reaction had created respiratory irritants affecting several individuals.
As a precautionary measure, crews evacuated residents from two buildings within the complex. Four firefighters were transported to local hospitals after inhaling the fumes, while two others received treatment at the scene but declined further care. Fire officials expect all to recover without serious complications.
Authorities confirmed the situation was quickly contained. The affected buildings were ventilated to clear the air, and the incident command was transferred to the City of Toledo Environmental Services division and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency for further investigation and remediation.
Officials continue to advise residents to avoid the area while cleanup efforts are underway.