Emergency personnel vehicles are parked near the scene where people are being treated after chemical leak at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Splashtown in Spring, Texas. (Melissa Phillip/Houston Chronicle via AP)
More than 60 people have been decontaminated after a chemical leak at a Six Flags water park. On Saturday, authorities announced dozens left the Houston area water park after suffering from minor skin irritation and respiratory issues.
Dozens of people were taken to local hospitals following the incident. One of those individuals was a three-year-old child who was hospitalized, but in stable condition.
Grateful for the swift action from first responders today at Splashtown. In all, 60+ people suffered respiratory issues and around 30 were transferred to the hospital. We’ve issued a closure order to investigate and ensure the park meets all requirements before reopening again. pic.twitter.com/2QWQOgtk37
— Lina Hidalgo (@LinaHidalgoTX) July 17, 2021
Officials reported the chemicals involved in the leak included a bleach called hypochlorite and 35 percent sulfuric acid.
“A lifeguard was sick and soon after that more and more people began becoming sick,” explained Judge Lina Hidalgo of Harris County, Texas. “Children were walking out of the pool with respiratory issues and eventually it became very clear there was something in the water making these children sick.”
County officials closed the park and have been working to locate the source of the leak.
Source: One America News Network
