Access to the canal is being restricted to minimize harm to wildlife and the surrounding environment.

An urgent warning has been issued to residents regarding a hazardous chemical spill in the Pleck area of Walsall, reported around midday on August 12, 2024.

Walsall Council has declared a major incident due to the sodium cyanide spill in the canal, which has resulted in dead fish being found.

The spill involves toxic chemicals that have entered the waterway, posing serious health risks to anyone who comes into contact with the contaminated water.

Residents and pet owners are urged to avoid the affected area due to serious health risks from direct exposure to the contaminated water.

Walsall Council warned the public that direct contact with the contaminated water poses a potential serious risk to health for both humans and pets.

Public Health England warns that exposure to sodium cyanide can cause symptoms ranging from headache and nausea to coma and death in extreme cases.

Sodium cyanide is a toxic substance used industrially for metal cleaning and extraction, and it poses severe health risks if ingested or if there is direct contact with the water.

The Environment Agency is conducting water tests for sodium cyanide and other harmful chemicals to assess the pollution's impact.

The Canal and Rivers Trust has closed navigation and towpaths in the Walsall area to contain the spill and protect public health.

Dog walkers and the public are advised to avoid the affected canal and towpaths to minimize health risks to themselves and their pets.

Walsall Council has confirmed that drinking water supply remains unaffected by the spill.