Canmore Hotel Addresses Social Media Speculation Following Pool Emergency
A hotel in Canmore, Alberta, has issued a formal statement to counter online rumors suggesting cyanide was involved in a hazardous materials incident that resulted in 11 children being transported to the hospital over the weekend. The Canmore Inn and Suites took decisive action to clarify the situation after speculation spread rapidly across social media platforms in the aftermath of the concerning event.
Emergency Response and Initial Findings
The incident unfolded on Sunday morning when approximately 30 children began exhibiting symptoms of illness, including vomiting, while using the hotel's swimming pool facility. Emergency Health Services confirmed that 11 of those affected required hospital treatment, with 10 reported in stable condition and one in serious but stable condition. The swift response from local authorities ensured all individuals were evacuated from the pool area promptly.
Canmore Fire-Rescue immediately implemented chemical exposure protocols based on the nature of the complaints and the specific location within the establishment. First responders established a triage area near the hotel lobby where emergency medical services and supporting fire-rescue teams conducted vital sign assessments on those affected.
Air Testing Points to Chlorine Exposure
Comprehensive air testing conducted at the scene revealed elevated levels of a hazardous substance. According to official statements from the Town of Canmore, the substance "was suspected to be chlorine based on the location and symptoms exhibited by the patients." Fire-Rescue crews successfully ventilated the substance from both the pool area and mechanical room, with an independent contractor confirming no immediate danger remained once proper ventilation had been achieved.
Air monitoring continued throughout the hotel premises before Canmore Fire-Rescue officially cleared the scene. The hotel emphasized that their pool systems are professionally operated and monitored by a licensed chemical management company, which is currently investigating the incident alongside guidance from Alberta Health.
Hotel Statement Directly Addresses Cyanide Claims
In a Tuesday statement released to the public, the Canmore Inn and Suites directly addressed the circulating rumors: "At this time, we would like to make clear that there is no evidence to support claims or rumors circulating on social media regarding the presence of cyanide." The establishment further noted that ongoing testing and assessments have not identified any indication of deliberate contamination.
The hotel management expressed their commitment to transparency, stating: "The health and safety of our guests is always our highest priority, and we take this matter extremely seriously. We understand how upsetting this situation has been and are committed to providing our full support to those impacted." They have pledged to share updates as the investigation progresses.
Previous Inspection History and Current Status
An Environmental Health Inspection Report from Alberta Health Services indicated that while violations were cited during previous inspections of the hotel's pool facilities, all identified issues had been properly addressed at the time of those inspections. The hotel maintains that their operations comply with established safety standards and regulations.
As the investigation continues, authorities and hotel management are working collaboratively to determine the exact cause of the chemical exposure and implement any necessary preventive measures to ensure such incidents do not occur in the future.
