The Nassau County Fire Commission responded to a call at 1:44 p.m. of a mix of household cleaning chemicals that spilled causing people to feel sick at The Home Depot on East Sunrise Highway in Freeport.
13 civilians that were exposed to the chemicals were evaluated by emergency medical services, leading to three being transported to Nassau University Medical Center for further treatment, according to the Nassau County Fire Marshals Office. No other civilian or first responder obtained any reported injuries or illnesses at this time.
The chemical mixture contained chlorine bleach and vinegar. Chief Fire Marshal Michael Uttaro said the chemical spill is contained and that there is no further threat to the public or the environment.
The Freeport Fire Department responded to the call promptly, led by Chief Christopher Burkhart. Eight other fire departments and ambulances provided mutual aid with about 40 firefighters reporting to the scene.
The Nassau County Fire Marshal Hazardous Materials Response team was requested by the Freeport Fire Department and is on the scene operating in protective suits to definitively identify all of the chemicals involved and assist in the clean-up to ensure the building is safe for workers and customers to re-enter.
