London Fire Brigade is issuing a safety reminder about mixing household cleaning products following an incident at a house on Lomond Grove in Camberwell.
The Brigade believes unsafe chemical fumes were released after bleach and toilet cleaner were mixed together.
A woman was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service crews suffering from breathing difficulties as firefighters in protective breathing apparatus ventilated the property and made the scene safe.
The incident is one of at least 10 similar incidents that have occurred in London this year. This has resulted in several people requiring hospital treatment.
Group Commander Pete Gustafson, who leads the Brigade’s hazardous materials team, said: “Most cleaning chemicals are either acid or alkali based – and if they were to be mixed, there is a very real risk that there will be a chemical reaction. This reaction can often release a harmful, irritable or even toxic gas which can have an incredibly strong smell and have a harmful effect on anyone breathing in these gases, especially the young and the elderly.
"Inhaling this gas can cause breathing difficulties as well as choking and irritation of the airway. The gas can also cause eyes to water and, in stronger concentrations, can cause loss of consciousness. If you accidentally cause this chemical reaction, it is vital you leave the premises immediately and call 999.”
Always follow the instructions for cleaning products and chemicals carefully and don’t be tempted to mix them as it could produce hazardous fumes. It is important that you always make sure to rinse away one cleaning chemical before using a different one. Make sure you always keep cleaning products securely sealed and out of the reach of children.
The Brigade was called at 1150 and the incident was over for firefighters by 1253. Two fire engines, a fire and rescue unit, a command unit and a Hazardous Materials & Environmental Protection Officer attended the scene.