12 Aug 2008

Firefighters deal with ammonia leak

8:46 pm on 12 August 2008

About 40 firefighters are dealing with the aftermath of an ammonia leak in South Auckland.

The leak, inside a commercial building in Manukau, was reported on Tuesday afternoon. Initial reports suggested that one person was trapped inside.

The Fire Service says staff reported headaches, and neighbours complained of a smell.

Police were called to evacuate properties within a 500-metre, downwind stretch of the property once an overturned 1000-litre tank was found.

Crews in chemical suits are washing away residue from the ammonia.

One person was taken to hospital suffering from ammonia fumes.