A „major incident“ has been declared at a Marks and Spencer store in London due to a suspected carbon monoxide leak.
Emergency services swiftly responded to the situation on Gallions Road in Charlton, Greenwich on Tuesday morning.
As a precaution, at least 35 individuals were evaluated before being discharged with normal oxygen levels.
Local council member David Gardner stated that while no customers were impacted, more than 40 staff members were affected.
He noted, „The store may remain closed for a couple of days while the leak is rectified and assured all safe.“
Teams from the London Fire Brigade are currently collaborating with medical personnel from the London Ambulance Service and the Metropolitan Police to manage the incident safely.
Emergency Response Details
James Johnson, Strategic Commander for the London Ambulance Service, commented, „We were called at 9:32 AM today (December 16) regarding reports of an incident on Gallions Road, Charlton.“
„We have deployed multiple resources to the scene, including conventional ambulance services, specialized units such as our Hazardous Area Response Team (HART), and Advanced Paramedic Practitioners.“
„We treated 30 individuals for chemical inhalation. Eleven patients were transported to the hospital, and 19 were discharged on-site.“
A spokesperson for the LFB indicated, „Firefighters are currently at the site of a suspected carbon monoxide incident at a shop on Gallions Road in Charlton. Crews are collaborating with multi-agency partners to ensure the incident is resolved safely. The Brigade was alerted at 8:35 AM, and two fire engines along with two fire rescue units have responded.“
Store Closure Statement
In a statement, M&S remarked, „Our Charlton store is temporarily closed as we investigate an incident that occurred earlier this morning. We hope to reopen as soon as possible.“
Bildquelle: Foto von Ian Taylor auf Unsplash