Why it matters: Quick action by care facility staff and emergency responders prevented harm to vulnerable patients at the specialist neurological centre on Hadleigh Road.
What happened: Staff at The Chantry reported a strong chemical odour at 05:31 on Monday, with some experiencing eye irritation. Fire crews discovered a faulty refrigerator was leaking refrigerant gas, causing elevated ammonia levels throughout the building.
The response: Three fire engines, one officer, and a hazardous materials advisor attended the incident. Crews helped relocate patients to safety before using breathing apparatus to ventilate the premises and remove the damaged refrigerator to an external area.
The details: The facility, which provides care for people with brain injuries and neurological conditions including Huntington's disease and Parkinson's, returned to normal operations after the scene was declared safe at 08:46. East of England Ambulance Service also attended as a precaution.
What's next: Fire crews recommended the faulty refrigerator be removed by a specialist contractor to prevent future incidents.
The bottom line: Professional emergency response and vigilant staff ensured no patients were harmed during the three-hour incident, with "minimal disruption" to the care facility's operations.
