MESA, AZ (CBS5) -
Five people having difficulty breathing were rushed to the hospital Thursday and 14 others were treated by fire officials after smoke from a generator filled the Mesa Police Department.
A spokesperson for the Mesa Fire Department said a generator in the building on East 6th Place overheated two days ago. When that malfunction occurred, that generator released smoke from some wires and tape into the building.
According to the spokesperson, that generator was repaired. However, when it was restarted this morning, some of the smoke and fumes still in the building were released into the police department.
Officials on scene have tested the air and said there are no dangerous levels. The building was ventilated and everyone was allowed back in.
Mesa Fire Capt. Forrest Smith said all air filters in the building have been replaced.
A restoration company will begin cleaning out the air ducts and City of Mesa Facilities Management will have a crew clean the floors and carpets to help remove any residual odors, Smith said.
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