Emergency Services Respond to Carbon Monoxide Leak at M&S Store in Charlton South East London Hospitalising Multiple Staff Members

A serious incident unfolded at the M&S store on Gallions Road in Charlton, south-east London, this morning, with multiple staff members reportedly hospitalised after suspected carbon monoxide exposure.

Emergency services have confirmed the situation remains ongoing as teams work to secure the site.

Dozens Treated, Eleven Hospitalised

According to reports, more than 30 people have received treatment for suspected carbon monoxide poisoning, with 11 individuals taken to hospital for further care.

Around 35 staff and customers had evacuated the building before the arrival of firefighters, highlighting how quickly the situation escalated.

Fire Brigade Responds Swiftly

The London Fire Brigade said crews were called to the store at 8:35 a.m. after a suspected carbon monoxide leak was reported.

Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus conducted systematic sweeps of the building, detecting elevated carbon monoxide levels.

After thorough checks, they ventilated the building to ensure it was safe and confirmed no further elevated readings were present.

The brigade continues to monitor the scene as a precaution.

Ambulance Service Mobilises Specialist Teams

James Johnson, Strategic Commander for the London Ambulance Service, confirmed that teams arrived at 9:32 a.m.

The response included standard ambulances as well as specialised units such as the Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) and Advanced Paramedic Practitioners.

“Everyone at the scene is being treated as a priority, and we are working closely with our emergency service partners to manage the incident while maintaining services across London,” Johnson said.

Councillor Issues Public Warning

Greenwich councillor David Gardner took to social media to alert residents to the situation.

“There is a major incident this morning at M&S Charlton with 35 people being treated for carbon monoxide poisoning.

All three emergency services are in attendance, so best avoid the area until all clear,” Gardner wrote on Facebook.

Investigation and Safety Measures Underway

Authorities are continuing to investigate the source of the leak, while ensuring the safety of staff, customers, and emergency responders.

M&S has been approached for comment regarding the incident.

This remains a breaking news situation, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.

What to Know for Now

Residents and commuters in the Charlton area are advised to avoid Gallions Road until authorities declare it safe.

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless gas that can be life-threatening, making rapid response and public caution essential.