OCALA, Fla. — Emergency crews responded to a report of a suspected carbon monoxide leak at a 600,000-square-foot facility, prompting a large-scale response and temporary evacuation.
Engine 1, Engine 4, Tower 1, Squad 7, Rescue 4, Battalion Chief 11, and a Safety Officer arrived to investigate the reported incident. Fire crews used gas monitors throughout the facility after receiving the initial report of a possible carbon monoxide leak.
Although initial gas monitor readings prompted further investigation, crews determined there was no carbon monoxide leak.
Firefighters identified the possibility of hydrogen off-gassing from forklift batteries, which can trigger similar alarm responses and symptoms. Crews removed the forklifts from the building and ventilated the facility, noting a decrease in gas readings during the operation.
Six people were evaluated by medical personnel. One patient was transported to a hospital, while the remaining five declined further treatment. No additional injuries were reported.
Operations at the facility were paused for several hours while crews investigated and completed ventilation efforts. The facility has since resumed normal operations.
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