Last updated: 23/12/2022, 9:25 AM

Suspected carbon monoxide leak – Chingford

21/12/2022 21:19
Waltham Forest
Gas leak
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Firefighters were called to a suspected carbon monoxide leak at a restaurant on Southend Road in Chingford.

Around 100 people who attended the restaurant earlier that day went to hospital after suffering from symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Firefighters used specialist equipment to carry out a systematic sweep of the building to check for elevated readings of chemical substances and isolated the gas supply. The property was evacuated by Metropolitan Police officers as a precaution. Crews ensured no elevated readings remained before leaving the scene.

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 is important that your alarm would 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 was called at 2119 and the incident was over for firefighters by 2348. Two fire engines and a fire rescue unit from Walthamstow and Wembley fire stations attended the scene.

CO poisoning symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Breathlessness
  • Collapse
  • Loss of consciousness

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.

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