UPDATED: The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are attending a chemical incident in Sandown tonight (Thursday) as a result of a corrosive liquid being poured down a set of public steps.
Dishwater detergent, labelled as corrosive and containing sodium hydroxide, has burnt the concrete steps leading to the Esplanade from Guadeloupe Road off the main High Street.
Local residents reported the potentially dangerous find to Police earlier this evening. Now, 1 fire appliance from Shanklin in on scene alongside an on-call Hazmat officer.
The area has been cordoned off.
The liquid can cause severe burns and is classed as hazardous waste.
It remains unclear as to why the substance has been poured down the steps and whether or not the act is deliberate or accidental.
UPDATE @ 21:40 – Firefighters have washed away the corrosive material and have made the area safe.
Island Roads have been called to remove the 2 plastic containers in a controlled manner.
Police have also been called to the scene.
