A major incident has been declared following a toxic chemical spillage in a West Midlands canal - with experts testing for deadly sodium cyanide. <br /><br />Residents are being told to stay away from a 14 mile stretch of waterways across Walsall, Birmingham and West Bromwich following the spill on Monday (12/8).<br /><br />The Environment Agency has been testing the canal for poisonous sodium cyanide and other dangerous chemicals in the affected area.<br /><br />Walsall Council warned there is a 'potential serious health risk' to people or animals who has had direct physical contact with the contaminated water.<br /><br />Public Health England says exposure to sodium cyanide, which can dissolve in water, in high enough concentrations can be fatal.
