Two men have been taken to hospital and their building evacuated after being overcome by fumes created by a dangerous gas in their toilet bowl.
Essex Fire and Rescue Service said they were called to a ground floor flat in Anerley Road, Westcliff at about 11:00 BST.
The men, believed to be in their 60s, suffered breathing difficulties.
Sulphuric acid had been mixed with toilet clearer in the bowl, creating a dangerous gas.
East of England Ambulance Service said the men were treated and stabilised before being taken to Southend Hospital.
The fire service said the gas did not pose any danger to neighbours.
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