Alberta Health Services is currently looking into the incident that occurred at a hotel pool, resulting in 11 children being sent to the hospital on Sunday morning. The Town of Canmore reported that Canmore Fire-Rescue received a hazmat call at 10:44 a.m. Upon arrival at the Canmore Inn and Suites, firefighters discovered approximately 30 children in the pool area exhibiting signs of illness, such as vomiting.
Due to suspicions of chemical exposure, the fire crews evacuated the pool area and conducted air testing, which revealed heightened levels of a hazardous substance. Based on the location and symptoms observed, officials suspected chlorine as the likely cause. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) reported that nine children were evaluated on-site and taken to Canmore General Hospital by their parents, with one child transported by ambulance. In total, 11 children were assessed at the hospital, with ten in stable, non-life-threatening conditions. One child was later transferred to the Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary in a serious but stable condition.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed her concern for the affected children and their families in a social media post on Monday evening. The town stated that fire crews identified the issue in the pool and a mechanical room, cordoned off the area, and ventilated to clear the air. Subsequent air testing confirmed the hotel’s safety before the crews departed. An independent contractor summoned by the hotel found no immediate hazards following the ventilation of the pool area.
The hotel emphasized its serious approach to the matter, stating that emergency services and Alberta Health were promptly contacted upon learning of the incident on Sunday. It assured full cooperation with authorities and pledged support to those impacted by the situation. The hotel also mentioned that the licensed chemical management company overseeing the pool operations is investigating the incident.
As the investigation continues, AHS has confirmed the closure of the hotel pool.