6 Chicago firefighters ill after returning from fire scene

CHICAGO (AP) - Authorities say six Chicago firefighters were taken to hospitals after they reported feeling ill after working to extinguish an earlier fire.

The Chicago Fire Department says firefighters had returned to the Engine 26 firehouse early Monday and several reported feeling sick. Five were taken to several different hospitals, where they were treated for chest pain and breathing problems.

WLS-TV reports one firefighter at another firehouse also was taken to a hospital. The fire department says all are expected to be OK.

The department was working to determine what caused the illnesses, but an irritant released into the air at the fire in the West Town neighborhood may be to blame. That fire was related to a furnace at a home and everyone at the home got out safely.