Official announcement from Walsall Council or Environment Agency

Major Incident in Walsall Due to Sodium Cyanide Spill in Canal

Aug 14, 2024, 04:07 AM

A major incident has been declared in the West Midlands following a toxic chemical spill in a canal in Walsall. The Environment Agency and Public Health England are among the eight agencies responding to the incident, which involves sodium cyanide, a potentially fatal compound. Local authorities have issued urgent warnings to residents and pet owners to stay away from the affected area due to serious health risks. The Walsall Council confirmed that the Environment Agency is testing the water for sodium cyanide and other chemicals. The spill poses a risk of seizures, vomiting, and loss of consciousness.