Home Depot Evacuated in Chemical Fire
A chemical fire broke out inside a crowded home improvement store Tuesday, forcing the evacuation of the business and a nearby apartment building.
Six firefighters suffered smoke inhalation battling the blaze at the Home Depot in the 6300 block of Variel Avenue, authorities said. They were taken to local hospitals, where they were later listed in good condition.
No members of the public were injured, said Jim Wells, a spokesman for the Los Angeles Fire Department.
The fire started about 4:30 p.m. in the rear of the cavernous store, in an area stocked with swimming pool supplies. About 200 customers and employees were inside when the blaze began, triggering the sprinkler system, Wells said.
More than 60 firefighters and a hazardous materials team responded to the scene, snuffing out the flames within half an hour.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The fire burned chlorine used to maintain pools, sending plumes of toxic smoke billowing to the east, Wells said.
Firefighters evacuated an apartment building downwind of the blaze.
Home Depot sustained $8,000 in damage to contents.
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