Latest news with #MedicalEmergencySystem
Malaysian Reserve
11-05-2025
- Health
- Malaysian Reserve
Toxic cloud in Spain: Lockdown for 150,000 residents lifted
MADRID — Some 150,000 residents in the town of Vilanova i la Geltrú and four surrounding communities south-west of Barcelona were told to lock down for hours after a fire at an industrial warehouse released a toxic cloud of chlorine in the area on Saturday. Residents were told to stay in their homes and keep windows and doors closed early on Saturday as a preventative measure as firefighters battled the blaze at the plant, which contained up to 70 tonness of pool cleaning tablets, the local civil protection unit said, reported German news agency dpa. According to the newspaper El Pais, the tablets reacted with the water used to extinguish the fire, creating a toxic cloud. The lockdown was lifted around 12:15 pm (1015 GMT), though authorities did not rule out further restrictions as they continued to monitor the situation. Residents were urged to remain cautious, especially those with higher health risks, such as the elderly and people with pre-existing conditions. The fire was under control as of about 7 pm. As of 7:45 pm, the Medical Emergency System (SEM) had treated seven people, including two in serious condition and one in critical condition. The cause of the fire was initially unknown. The irritant gas released in the air can react with the water in the mucous membranes found in the eyes, nose, throat and lungs to form hydrochloric acid, which burns sensitive tissue. –BERNAMA-dpa
Euronews
11-05-2025
- Climate
- Euronews
Toxic cloud in Spain's Catalonia leaves six towns under lockdown
A dangerous toxic cloud formed following a fire at a swimming pool chemicals factory in Vilanova i la Geltrú has caused six towns in Catalonia to be placed under lockdown on Saturday, according to Spanish authorities. The blaze erupted at around 2:20 am on Saturday at Clim Waterpool, a company specialising in cleaning products for swimming pools. The affected site, located at 18 Rambla dels Països Catalans in Vilanova i la Geltrú, contained approximately 70 tonnes of chlorine, a highly toxic substance when it burns. Catalonia's Civil Protection activated its chemical risk plan, PLASEQCAT, and sent emergency alerts to residents' mobile phones in the affected areas. Lockdown orders were lifted by Saturday afternoon. However, people from vulnerable groups were still advised to stay inside for the moment. The towns affected were Vilanova i la Geltrú (Barcelona), Sant Pere de Ribes (Barcelona), Cubelles (Barcelona), Cunit (Tarragona), Calafell (Tarragona) and the centre of Roquetes. Authorities had instructed residents to stay indoors, keep doors and windows closed, and not to use air-conditioning devices that can filter contaminated outdoor air. Firefighters from Catalonia report that the blaze is now in the stabilisation phase, with efforts successfully preventing its spread to nearby industrial buildings. Civil Protection has confirmed that no injuries were reported on Saturday, as the wind directed the toxic cloud towards the sea, minimising the threat to densely populated areas. Vilanova i la Geltrú town council warned on its social media that activities at the "La Fira Conte Va" festival, outdoor sports activities, libraries, the central market and the fish market have been cancelled. Sixty firefighters were deployed to the area with teams specialised in chemical risks constantly assessing the situation. The Medical Emergency System (SEM) has sent three units that remain on alert. Local Police are ensuring civilians comply with confinement orders. Civil Protection, operating from its coordination centre (CECAT), has been in continuous contact with town councils and local police of all affected municipalities to ensure a coordinated response. Health authorities have advised anyone experiencing symptoms such as eye irritation, breathing difficulties, or general discomfort to seek immediate medical assistance.
