Officials have said that Fire department personnel responding to an ammonia leak near Rochester, N. Y., told local homeowners to close windows and doors and stay indoors.

The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle has reported that the anhydrous ammonia leak at the Allied Frozen Storage facility in Brockport was reported to police and hazardous materials personnel about 8:25 a. m. on Sunday.

The newspaper also said that several roads near the facility were closed, and a portion of the Erie Canal footpath in the area was being monitored. Pedestrians were being told to stay away from the canal.

Supported by door-to-door notifications by emergency personnel, an automated calling system was used to alert residents to the leak.

Officials were waiting to decide if an evacuation would be necessary.

Brockport Fire Department spokesman Kelly Smith said that anhydrous ammonia can be fatal if ingested, inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

Smith further added, "We are going to be here for a while." (With Inputs from Agencies)