Several businesses in Mystic were closed on Wednesday after “explosive” levels of propane were measured at a Chinese restaurant.
The Old Mystic Fire Department responded to a call from Curves, at 12 Coogan Boulevard, at 7:30 a.m. after an employee became nauseous and her eyes began to sting, according to Fire Chief Ken Richards.
Firefighters noticed a strong odor and readings showed high levels of propane gas coming from the cooking area of the Chinese restaurant, which was closed at the time.
According to an online listing, the Chinese restaurant is Peking Tokyo.
Firefighters said they believe the problem had been persisting for some time and would not have happened overnight.
The state fire marshal’s office, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Mystic River Ambulance and an engine from Sub Base Fire responded. Air samples were taken and sent to state lab.
The propane leaks were isolated and the propane to the building was stopped.
All businesses were allowed to open around 1:30 p.m., other than the Chinese restaurant, which Richards said will be closed until the problems are fixed.
The Curves employee who became ill was taken to Lawrence & Memorial Hospital to be evaluated.
