Chemical mix-up causes England, Ark., evacuation

Associated Press – April 28, 2011 3:14 PM ET

ENGLAND, Ark. (AP) – A mix-up involving a couple of chemicals at the water treatment plant in the Lonoke County city of England led to an evacuation of homes and businesses near the facility.

Police cleared the area for several hours Thursday after a chemical company worker mistakenly poured fluoride into a storage vat containing chlorine. The chemical reaction created a dangerous gas. Police say two people were treated at the scene for breathing problems.

Several restaurants and other businesses in the area were evacuated.

Police say there was no threat to the city’s drinking water. The container where the chemicals were mixed was only used for storage.

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