Londoners are putting themselves at risk by mixing common cleaning products to create dangerous chemical cocktails. Accidentally combining common household cleaners can trigger a chemical reaction and unleash dangerous fumes.
Since 2023, the Brigade has responded to over 150 incidents involving cleaning chemicals that have triggered a dangerous reaction. Chemical incidents require the Brigade to deploy specially trained and equipped officers to identify and deal with these dangerous combinations.
The Brigade’s lead officer for dealing with hazardous materials, Group Commander Matt Hayward, is warning Londoners to always read the labels and instructions on your cleaning products. He said: “The label will always tell you how to safely use the product, and the risks of mixing it with other things. Always follow the instructions on the container to ensure you are using your cleaning products safely. People often think that cleaning products will be twice as effective when mixed, but it can be a recipe for disaster.
“If you do accidentally mix chemicals and start to feel unwell, make sure you leave your property immediately and stay out whilst you call 999 for assistance. We have crews that are trained and equipped to deal with these incidents, so we are ready to help if required.”
Santosh Karma, an IT worker in Canary Wharf, was exposed to dangerous gases after mixing two common cleaning products, causing a dangerous chemical reaction at his house in Plumstead.
Santosh recalled: “It was a Sunday, and I poured bleach into the wash basin, toilet, and the bath. I then used a drain cleaner. The mixture then started to produce gases, and as I continued cleaning the bathroom I began to have trouble breathing and started coughing. I opened the small bathroom window, but it didn't help. I knew something wasn’t right, so I rushed out of the bathroom.
“After a few minutes I was struggling to breathe. I went to my bedroom, opened the window, and hung out to breathe in fresh air. It was scary not being able to breathe properly and it felt like it was having a serious impact on my health.
“When the ambulance crew arrived, there were firefighters in breathing apparatus too. I was surprised to see London Fire Brigade at our house, but the ambulance crews had called them.
“The firefighters checked the air quality in our house to make sure it was all ok for everyone to return inside. The ambulance crew took me to hospital for checks. I did some blood tests and fortunately everything was ok.
“I am not going to mix chemicals again. I’d advise anyone who does the cleaning, and uses products, to always read the label. This was a scary experience, and I would not want anyone else to go through it.”
A chemical incident triggers a larger response from the Brigade compared to a regular incident. This is due to the need to send specialist hazardous material (HAZMAT) crews to the scene, alongside responding firefighters. These specialist crews are trained to identify the chemicals present and the risk they pose and lead our response in making the area safe.