Stolen hoovers contain deadly asbestos

Published on Sun 29 Jun 2008

Police in Hemel Hempstead are warning that two vacuum cleaners stolen from a building site in Welwyn could contain asbestos dust. The police fear that the two yellow Numatic vacuums could be offered for sale at markets or car boot sales. They are urging anyone who sees the vacuums (reference number H2D572 identity mark B2705 and HD2570 identity mark B1712) to call 999.

A spokesman for Herts Police said:

"The contents of the machines could pose a serious risk to health if inhaled.

"Asbestos dust is extremely dangerous and the machines should not be approached by anyone who is not wearing very specific protective clothing."