Six firefighters treated for breathing issues following Northwest Dallas blaze
Six firefighters were taken to the hospital for breathing issues after responding to a house fire late Friday morning in northwest Dallas, according to authorities.
Firefighters arrived just after 11 a.m. to reports of heavy smoke at a one-story residence at 3559 Durango Dr.
Smoke change triggers evacuation
According to a news release from Dallas Fire-Rescue, firefighters on scene were ordered to evacuate due to a change in smoke color and an unfamiliar odor. Further investigation revealed an unlabeled container suspected of containing chlorine on the premises.
"After experiencing breathing issues associated with the exposure, a total of six firefighters were taken to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where they are being evaluated," Dallas Fire-Rescue spokesman Jason Evans said.
Evans said first responders traveled door-to-door to inform residents, urging them to shelter in place until the air was deemed safe. The HazMat team confirmed the substance was chlorine and declared the air "clear of any traces of it," he said.
5 of 6 firefighters discharged
Evans said five of the six treated firefighters have been discharged from the hospital, while the sixth remains hospitalized "as a precaution, for extended observation."
No other injuries have been reported, Evans said.
Fire extinguished, cause probed
The fire was declared extinguished just before 1 p.m.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
