According to a report from ABC7, the Chicago (IL) Fire Department (CFD) responded to and eventually locked down an ammonia leak that was released at a business in the 3600-block of West 59th Street in the city’s West Lawn neighborhood Thursday morning.
The CFD used a “Level 2” response to stop the leak.
CFD Spokesman Larry Langford said residents were told to shelter in place because of the leak at Home City Ice, prompting the department to close streets in the immediate area.
CFD Commissioner Annette Nance-Holt said CFD crews eventually accessed and shut off the valve causing the leak. Just before 7:45 a.m., air quality improved to the point where the CFD gave an “all clear,” allowing residents to leave their homes.
Langford said a large plume of ammonia was seen coming from the structure. Crews opened several hydrants to flood the streets so water could get into the sewer system, as some ammonia was detected in nearby sewers.
High humidity levels were a threat for severe eye irritation as well as potential throat and breathing problems.
No injuries have been reported.
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