A total of 22 people were hospitalized early Tuesday following a gas leak at an apartment complex in southwest Miami-Dade.
Officials from the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue confirmed they received a late-night call reporting individuals feeling ill inside the apartment building. Upon arrival, crews detected a gas leak.
Emergency Response and Evacuation
More than twenty fire rescue units responded to the scene to check carbon monoxide levels at the Hemingway Villa Condominiums, located at the intersection of 94th Avenue and 40th Terrace.
A resident told local media that firefighters arrived around 4:30 a.m. and knocked on doors to evacuate neighbors. Rescuers broke down doors where there was no response.
First responders identified the gas leak originating from a faulty boiler at the rear of the building.
Although several individuals were transported to hospitals, there were no fatalities. "In total, we evaluated 60 patients, 22 of whom were transported to area hospitals for further care and treatment," said Deputy Fire Chief Danny Cardeso.
Health Impacts and Safety Recommendations
Erika Benitez, spokesperson for Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, stated that the hospitalized individuals exhibited symptoms of carbon monoxide inhalation such as confusion, nausea, headaches, chest pain, and in some severe cases, difficulty breathing.
In the most severe instances, some people were on the verge of losing consciousness.
Authorities recommended residents install carbon monoxide detectors with alarms in their homes to alert them in such emergencies. Benitez explained that carbon monoxide poisoning can cause mild symptoms but can also be fatal.
Fire rescue teams remained on-site for hours, ventilating the homes and leaving doors open. The gas supply has been cut off. Once the building's levels are deemed safe, residents will be allowed to return to their homes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Miami Gas Leak Incident
Here are some common questions and answers regarding the recent gas leak incident in Miami, which might help residents understand the situation better and take necessary precautions.
What caused the gas leak in the Miami apartment complex?
The gas leak was caused by a faulty boiler located at the rear of the Hemingway Villa Condominiums building.
What symptoms did the affected individuals exhibit?
The individuals exhibited symptoms of carbon monoxide inhalation, including confusion, nausea, headaches, chest pain, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing.
How many people were evacuated and transported to hospitals?
A total of 60 individuals were evaluated, and 22 were transported to area hospitals for further care and treatment.