Six people sickened by fumes during storm cleanup
Chemicals being used to clean a business damaged by the storm that came through Grayslake sent six people to the hospital, fire officials said.
Firefighters responded to the call of a potential carbon monoxide leak at GFX International, 333 N. Barron Blvd., about 12:20 p.m., said Grayslake Battalion Chief Joris Lillge.
When they arrived, firefighters couldn't detect a carbon monoxide leak, and hazardous materials teams from Lake and McHenry County were called in, Lillge said.
On Sunday, storms that produced an EF-1 tornado tore through the area, ripping a portion of the roof off the business, a large factory that produces graphics and signs, he said.
"We did determine there was a cleaning company in the building working with some chemicals, and the hazardous materials team feels confident that was the source," he said.
Those who fell ill reported nausea and lightheadedness and were concentrated near the cafeteria, where cleaning crews were working, Lillge said.
Three people were taken to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, while the other three were taken to Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital.
GFX International employs about 190 people, who were all evacuated, Lillge said. Three additional people were treated at the scene.