Toledo Fire & Rescue Department (TFRD) issued an emergency evacuation order for all homes and businesses located within a one‑mile radius of 1050 Progress Avenue after a tank at the Sterling Pipe & Tube facility began leaking an unidentified chemical into the air.
Evacuation and shelter‑in‑place instructions
Deputy Fire Chief Sheldon Collins explained that the building was evacuated because of the leak and that anyone outside the designated zone should remain indoors, close windows and doors, and avoid unnecessary travel. The department is coordinating transportation for displaced residents, with TARTA buses picking up passengers at the Meijer store on East Alexis and a temporary shelter set up at Shoreland Elementary School.
Raintree Village mobile home park and the Alexis Addition neighborhood fall inside the evacuation zone. Washington Township officials are working with TFRD to ensure all residents of Raintree Village are safely relocated.
Road and rail closures
Several streets have been blocked to protect the public and emergency crews. Enterprise Boulevard between Stickney Avenue and Benore Road is closed, and nearby rail lines have been shut down until the hazard is contained.
Public‑call guidance
Officials asked the public not to call 911 about the hazmat incident, noting that emergency dispatchers are being overwhelmed with calls that could delay response to other critical situations. Non‑emergency inquiries should be directed to the Engage Toledo hotline, which is handling questions and providing assistance related to the evacuation.
What is known about the chemical?
Collins confirmed that a chemical is present in the air, but the specific substance has not yet been identified. Air quality monitors are on site, and the department is working with state and federal agencies to determine the nature of the leak and the appropriate remediation steps.
Community response
Local residents expressed concern about the smell and haze reported by 13 Action News crews at the scene. Community leaders emphasized the importance of following evacuation orders and shelter‑in‑place guidance to protect families, especially children and seniors, from potential exposure.
The city will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Residents are encouraged to stay tuned to local news outlets and official city communications for the latest developments.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
