Ann Arbor, MI – A person was hospitalized Thursday night after a hazardous chemical reaction inside an Ann Arbor apartment produced toxic chlorine gas, prompting a response from firefighters and a regional hazardous materials team.
According to the Ann Arbor Fire Department, crews responded shortly before 10 p.m. June 11 to Homestead Commons, located near Eisenhower Parkway, following reports of a person down after a suspected chemical exposure.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a strong chemical odor throughout the apartment and discovered an unconscious individual inside a bathroom. Responders immediately donned self-contained breathing apparatus and removed the victim from the hazardous environment.
The patient was transferred to Huron Valley Ambulance personnel and transported in stable condition to University of Michigan Hospital.
The Washtenaw County Hazardous Materials Response Team was called to assist with the incident. Hazmat technicians identified the chemicals involved, rendered the area safe and ventilated the apartment to remove the remaining toxic atmosphere.
Fire officials said the incident occurred after a toilet bowl cleaner containing hydrochloric acid was mixed with a bleach-based cleaner containing sodium hypochlorite. The combination created chlorine gas, a highly toxic substance that can cause severe respiratory injuries and potentially death.
According to fire officials, chlorine gas reacts with moisture in the eyes, nose, throat and lungs, forming corrosive acids that can damage tissue and impair breathing. Even relatively low concentrations can cause serious health effects.
The department noted that this is the second significant chemical exposure incident in Ann Arbor in recent weeks involving improper use of household chemicals. In a previous case, a spa treatment chemical was reportedly used to clean a residential floor, creating another hazardous situation.
Officials are reminding residents never to mix cleaning products and to always follow manufacturer instructions. Anyone experiencing breathing difficulties, dizziness, eye irritation or other symptoms following a chemical exposure should leave the area immediately and call 911.
