A chlorine gas leak at Crystal Pool in Victoria, British Columbia, led to the hospitalization of eight people following the unintended mixing of two chemicals. The incident triggered a comprehensive hazardous materials (hazmat) response, widespread evacuations, and temporary road closures in the area.

Victoria Fire Chief Dan Atkinson confirmed that the leak originated in a mechanical room at the facility. Investigations are currently underway to determine whether the cause was a mechanical malfunction or human error.

Emergency Response and Public Safety

Firefighters were initially alerted to a noxious odor emanating from the building. Upon their arrival, they quickly identified the potential presence of hazardous fumes, finding several people already evacuated and experiencing respiratory discomfort.

The area was immediately secured, and a hazmat team from the Capital Regional District (CRD) was dispatched to manage the situation, as it was deemed beyond the scope of a standard fire response. BC Emergency Health Services (EHS) reported receiving a call at 11:09 a.m. for a hazmat incident.

EHS deployed five ambulances, a link and referral unit, and a paramedic supervisor to the scene. Ten individuals were assessed, with eight requiring transport to the hospital in stable condition. Chief Atkinson noted that those affected exhibited symptoms such as coughing and breathing difficulties.

Community Impact and Ongoing Measures

The incident's impact extended to the surrounding community. Residents in homes located downwind from Crystal Pool were advised to shelter in place, remaining indoors with doors and windows closed and ventilation systems shut off.

Hazmat teams are systematically searching the building and initiating mechanical ventilation. During this two-hour phase, a wider 300-meter perimeter was established, with residents within this zone also instructed to stay indoors. Following ventilation, the chemicals will be isolated and properly disposed of.

The Crystal Pool & Fitness Centre has been closed indefinitely. Victoria Police officers are assisting with the response, and Quadra Street has been closed to traffic between Bay Street and Caledonia Avenue.

Eyewitness Account

Maureen Jackson, who had just finished an aquafit class around 11 a.m., described her experience. She noticed an unusual vinegary smell and began coughing shortly after exiting the pool.

Jackson inquired with the head lifeguard, who stated they were investigating and alerting the front desk. Soon after, she heard whistles signaling an evacuation, followed by a general emergency announcement instructing everyone to leave the pool area.

While Jackson managed to get partially dressed, some individuals were forced to evacuate in their swimwear. Evacuees were directed to the tennis courts, where they awaited the arrival of fire trucks. Jackson observed several people struggling to breathe, though she herself only experienced a dry mouth and felt relatively unharmed.

Future of Crystal Pool Facilities

The incident occurred at a facility already slated for replacement. Plans to build a new Crystal Pool on the existing footprint, which will involve the demolition of the current structure, were approved by Victoria voters years ago.

In response to recent pool closures in the area, the city council has approved a plan to utilize the pool at the former YMCA-YWCA facility. This measure aims to provide continuous pool access during the Crystal Pool's closure, although the former YMCA-YWCA facility still requires improvements before it can reopen.