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UPDATE: 9.30pm, Monday 12 January: Ward Councillor Sue van der Linder confirmed the all clear, after a hazardous materials incident sparked an emergency evacuation in Montegue Gardens earlier today.
"We have the all clear to end shelter in the Table View area, and the road to Montegue Gardens is also reopened," Van der Linder said in a statement.
UPDATE: 7pm, Monday 12 January: Hazmat technicians are on the scene to complete a visual inspection and to verify any thermal signatures and chemical reactions, according to Fire and Rescue Services Spokesperson Jermaine Carelse.
"They will be wearing fully encapsulated suits in order to work in the prevailing conditions. At this stage, four patients have been treated – one of whom has been transported to a nearby medical facility for further care."
The chemical reaction is stabilising, added Carelse, but the public is being advised to steer clear of the area, to not drive through the plume and to keep doors and windows closed and switch off their air-conditioning units. The incident start at about 3:30pm on Monday, when the Fire and Rescue Services responded to calls of smoke emanating from a building in Montague Gardens.
This remains an active incident and updates will be provided as they become available.
UPDATE: 5pm, Monday 12 January: Emergency services are attending to a fire in the Montague Gardens area, after a hazardous materials incident reportedly at Ecowise, a safety cleaning and hygiene solutions factory. The incident involves a nitric acid spill, described as extremely hazardous, as it releases toxic, reddish-brown or yellow fumes containing nitrogen dioxide. Inhaling these fumes can cause throat and eye irritation, with severe exposure leading to more serious conditions.
Road closures are in effect, and an evacuation of the immediate vicinity is underway. Disaster Risk Management Services are on standby to assist as the situation develops.
Residents of the surrounding neighbourhood of Table View have been asked to steer clear of the area where possible, remain indoors, and keep windows and doors closed. They are also advised to ensure their pets are indoors until the contamination clears.
Further updates to follow.
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