MIDLOTHIAN, Va. — A bucket of chlorine not properly sealed and exposed to moisture prompted the evacuation of the Aquatics and Fitness Center in Woodlake.
The pool area was evacuated after people started to complain about an unknown odor that was irritating their noses, eyes, and throats.
“Hazardous Materials crews arrived to find an opened container of granulated pool chlorine off-gassing. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the lid was left off of the 5 gallon bucket of product causing moisture to build which caused a gaseous reaction,” Capt. Knowles said. “Granulated chlorine, used to treat water in pools, is designed to be kept dry until ready to use. A portioned amount of chemical is then diluted in the pool to treat the water.”
Nine people were medically evaluated at the pool and three were treated for minor irritations. No one was taken to the hospital.
Knowles added this was the fourth or fifth call of this nature Chesterfield Fire crews have responded to so far this swimming pool season.
“Mishandling of pool chemicals can cause chemical burns to the skin, inhalation irritations or burns to the respiratory tract,” Knowles said. “Avoid physical contact and be sure to follow manufacture’s recommendations. If skin contact occurs, flush the area with copious amounts of water; if respiratory injury occurs, get to a well ventilated area and seek medical attention.”
Fire crews planned to spend two hours at the pool to fully decontaminate the center.
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