(Frederick, Md, October 16,
2013) – Fire and Rescue was contacted by Wegmans management shortly after 7
p.m. this evening to investigate an odor of unknown origin in their store on
Wormans Mill Road. The Lieutenant on the first arriving unit reported a bleach-like
odor in the store and discovered that two employees were suffering flu like
symptoms from said odor; the hazardous materials response was requested. Fire and
Rescue and Frederick Police Department personnel evacuated approximately one
hundred twenty customers and employees from Wegmans and the immediately
adjoining store, Marshalls.
Hazardous materials teams monitored both businesses but were
unable to locate the source of the odor. Additionally, air monitoring was
conducted and no abnormal readings were noted. Customers and employees were
allowed to return approximately one and one-half hours after being evacuated.
The employees reporting symptoms recovered after being removed to
fresh air and refused further treatment or transport.
Chief Denise Pouget of the Division of Fire & Rescue Services said,
“I applaud the management of both businesses for taking a proactive approach on
behalf of their customers and employees and working hand in hand with us to
bring this to a successful and quick resolution.”
For further information
contact Community Services Liaison Doug Brown at 301-600-1905 or via e-mail at dbrown@FrederickCountyMD.gov.
