Paulsboro: More than a dozen people are being evaluated for possible respiratory problems after a freight train derailed on a bridge in southern New Jersey and dumped several tanker cars carrying hazardous materials into a creek.
Officials at Underwood-Memorial Hospital say 11 people have been transported with complaints related to the rail accident in Paulsboro and five more arrived on their own. The hospital's communication's office says all are believed to have complained of having respiratory problems. Residents in three towns were told on Friday morning to stay inside after the derailment.
At least one tanker car was believed to contain vinyl chloride. Exposure to the gas at high levels can cause dizziness and drowsiness. The cause of the accident hasn't been determined.
Emergency management officials issued the advisory to residents of Paulsboro, West Deptford and East Greenwich Township as a precaution. TV helicopter footage showed at least two tankers in Mantua Creek and one hanging over a trestle. The creek empties into the Delaware River just across from Philadelphia International Airport.
The Environmental Protection Agency said short-term exposure to high levels of vinyl chloride can cause dizziness and drowsiness. A spokesman for the state Environmental Protection Department says officials are trying to determine what the cars were carrying.
The South Jersey Times says 18 people are reported to be having difficulty breathing. It's not clear what caused the derailment.
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