NY freight train spills chemicals

WESTPORT, N.Y. -- A freight train spilled a hazardous powder Saturday as one car derailed and was dragged for seven miles in northern New York state, said state police.

No injuries were reported, said state Trooper Brian Rhoney.

As a precaution, county officials declared a state of emergency in this town of about 1,300 people near the Canadian border but no one was evacuated, said Ray Thatcher, Essex County director of emergency services.

The spill began in a residential area and ended in a rural farming area, Rhoney said. He identified the spilled chemical as sodium chlorate, which can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation, with serious illness possible if it is ingested. It also can post a fire risk.