Chlorine Gas Leak Prompts Hazardous Materials Response In Newport Beach

NEWPORT BEACH, CA — A chlorine gas leak inside the garage of a home in the Corona del Mar area prompted some evacuations and orders for others to take shelter inside their homes.

The Newport Beach Fire Department responded to a medical emergency at 418 Carnation Avenue at 2:18 p.m. Monday, according to NBFD spokesman David Gibson.

"Upon arrival, fire personnel identified a hazardous materials situation involving the presence of mixed chemicals in the garage," Gibson said.

A dispatcher for NBFD told City News Service the material was chlorine gas. Homes closest to the leak were evacuated. Others were asked to shelter in place.

"Newport Beach Fire personnel successfully rescued one individual from the third floor of the structure, along with one dog," Gibson said. Both had stable vital signs. A second person was also taken to a hospital for treatment and had stable vital signs.

"The one dog that was rescued is still in great condition," he said.

Teams from Huntington Beach and Anaheim fire departments assisted in the hazmat response, Gibson said. The incident was over at 4:55 p.m.

"Hazmat teams were able to neutralize the chemicals which were found to be ammonia and chlorine bleach mixed together, which was off gassing," he said.

The presence of police and fire vehicles has shut down Carnation Avenue from Bayside Drive to Coast Highway and First Street from Begonia to Dahlia avenues, police said.

— City News Service