FAIRFIELD (KRON) — Several firefighters and a police officer in Fairfield were taken to the hospital Saturday evening after responding to a house fire involving hazardous materials. 

The fire department has issued a shelter-in-place for the area of Ash Tree Court and Fawn Glen Circle in Fairfield because of the incident. 

Police say they responded around 5 p.m. to a house fire on Ash Tree Court, and while fighting the fire, they discovered 200 pounds of lithium batteries in the garage of the home. 

The batteries began to emit fluoride gas, according to police, prompting three firefighters and a police officer to be taken to the hospital for exposure. 

One firefighter also suffered a back injury and was taken to the hospital. 

The shelter-in-place order for the neighborhood is in effect until 11:30 p.m.. 

It’s unclear how the fire started.

Residents are asked to avoid the area. 

Residents who live in the area should also shut off their air conditioning and close their windows and doors to avoid exposure. 

Those experiencing shortness of breath, a scratchy throat or itchy skin should go to the hospital, according to police. 

This is developing, check back for updates

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