More than 40 people treated for chlorine exposure following fire at AFB

Last week a fire broke out at the Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, which houses the US Air Force 18th Wing. 

The fire began in a hazarous materials storage factility just south of the airfield and burned for around 5 hours before being extinguished. Thick billowing clouds of smoke could be seen eminating from the area as firefighters tried to control the blaze, and authorities evacuated an area 500 feet upwind and 2,000 feet downwind of the site. 

After the fire was extinguished authorites announced that the fire had released chlorine gas particles, and US military media reported later in the day that at least 45 people were treated for exposure to smoke and chlorine. Those suffering from shortness of breath or coughing, irritation, and runny nose, were urged to consult well a doctor. Meanwhile, Kadena’s medical group canceled all routine appointments, apparently bracing for further treatment of those affected.

 

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