Canmore, Alta.: Alberta Health Services (AHS) and Canmore Fire-Rescue are investigating an incident at a Canmore hotel pool that resulted in 11 children being taken to hospital on Sunday morning.
According to the Town of Canmore, Fire-Rescue crews responded to a hazardous materials call at approximately 10:44 a.m. at the Canmore Inn and Suites. Upon arrival, firefighters found nearly 30 children in the pool area experiencing symptoms of illness, including nausea and vomiting.
Emergency crews suspected a chemical-related exposure and immediately evacuated the pool area. Air quality testing conducted at the scene revealed elevated levels of a hazardous substance. Based on the symptoms reported and the location of the incident, responders believe chlorine exposure may have been the cause.
Emergency Health Services (EHS) said nine children were assessed on site and later transported to Canmore General Hospital by their parents, while one child was taken to hospital by ambulance. In total, 11 children were evaluated at the hospital, with 10 reported to be in stable, non-life-threatening condition.
One child was later transferred to the Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary, where they remain in serious but stable condition.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith addressed the incident in a social media post Monday evening, expressing concern for the affected children and their families. “My heart goes out to the children who became seriously ill at a Canmore hotel pool and to their families, who must be incredibly worried right now,” she wrote, adding that she hopes for their full recovery.
The Town of Canmore said firefighters traced the source of the issue to the pool area and an adjacent mechanical room. The affected spaces were secured and ventilated to remove the hazardous air. Subsequent air testing indicated the hotel was safe before emergency crews departed.
The town also noted that the hotel hired an independent contractor, who found no immediate danger once ventilation was completed.
In a statement, the hotel said it is treating the incident with utmost seriousness. Staff contacted emergency services and Alberta Health promptly after becoming aware of the situation and are fully co-operating with the ongoing investigation.
“We understand how distressing this has been and are committed to supporting everyone affected,” the hotel said, adding that the licensed chemical management company responsible for the pool is reviewing the incident.
AHS confirmed that the hotel pool remains closed as investigations continue.
