FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Mike Wedell, Deputy Fire Chief, Public Information Officer
MWedell@ontarioca.gov
(909)395-2539
Ontario Fire Department Responds to Hazardous Materials Release at Commercial
Structure Fire
Ontario, CA — December 5, 2024 — At approximately 6:05 AM, the Ontario Fire Department responded to a commercial structure fire on Doubleday Avenue, Ontario, CA 91761. Upon arrival, the first engine company identified a hazardous materials release resulting in a gas discharge. In response to the situation, additional resources were immediately requested, bringing a total of 24 fire units and 51 personnel to the scene.
As part of the response, the Ontario Fire Department implemented road closures, issued evacuation orders, and enforced shelter-in-place measures to ensure the safety of the public. By 11:00 AM, the scope of the road closures, evacuation zones, and shelter-in-place orders were reduced, and all restrictions were lifted by 2:10 PM.
The hazardous material released at the scene was identified as gas from granulated chlorine. A thorough search was conducted to ensure no victims were present, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the release is currently under investigation. Assessments of property damage, content loss, and associated costs have not yet been determined.
The Ontario Fire Department was assisted by several partner agencies throughout the response. The Ontario Police Department provided traffic control with multiple units, and American Medical Response assisted with the deployment of one paramedic ambulance. Additionally, the Rancho Cucamonga Fire District and San Bernardino Fire Department Hazardous Response Team responded with specialized hazardous materials personnel.
During the operation, four firefighters were exposed to the hazardous materials and experienced medical difficulties. They were transported to a local medical facility for evaluation and treatment. Their condition is being closely monitored.
The Ontario Fire Department would like to thank the public for their cooperation during the incident.
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