Building Evacuated for Unknown Irritant In the Air

The Madison Fire Department responded to 715 Rethke Avenue earlier today for an odor investigation and at least one person reporting they were having trouble breathing. 

Property management reported an odor on the third floor but were unaware of what could have caused it or where it originated. 

Firefighters proceeded to the third floor and confirmed the presence of an irritant. Engine 8 notified the MFD Hazardous Incident Team and requested their response. 

All occupants were asked to evacuate their apartments, and firefighters opened windows to help ventilate the building. One person was taken to the hospital.

The Hazardous Incident Team performed a methodical examination of the building that took approximately 90 minutes to complete. Various toxic chemicals and potential causes of the respiratory irritation were ruled out, but the exact source of the original complaint could not be definitively identified. Residents speculated to paramedics it may have been mace or pepper spray. 

Firefighters thoroughly ventilated the building using high-pressure fans while opening doors and a roof hatch. The atmosphere returned to normal, and all occupants were able to return to their homes.