An investigation is underway by Alberta Health Services to determine the cause of an incident at a hotel pool that led to 11 children being hospitalized on Sunday morning. Canmore Fire-Rescue received a hazardous materials call at 10:44 a.m., with approximately 30 children at Canmore Inn and Suites pool area displaying symptoms of illness, such as vomiting.
Upon arrival, firefighters suspected chemical exposure and evacuated the pool area. Air testing conducted by fire crews revealed heightened levels of a hazardous substance, leading to suspicions that chlorine may have been the source of the problem.
Nine children were evaluated on-site and taken to Canmore General Hospital by their parents, while one child required ambulance transportation. Of the 11 children assessed at the hospital, 10 were in stable, non-life-threatening condition, with one child later transferred to Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary in a serious but stable state.
In a social media update on Monday evening, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed concern for the affected children and their families, wishing for their speedy recovery.
The town reported that fire crews identified the issue in the pool and a mechanical room, restricting access to the area and improving ventilation to clear the air. Subsequent air testing confirmed the hotel’s safety before the departure of the crews. An independent contractor hired by the hotel found no immediate danger following the ventilation of the pool area.
The hotel emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that emergency services and Alberta Health were promptly notified upon discovery of the incident. The hotel assured full cooperation with authorities and pledged support to those impacted, highlighting that the licensed chemical management company overseeing the pool operations is investigating the incident.
As the investigation continues, AHS has confirmed the pool’s closure at the hotel.
