Chaos at Hampshire Spa as Chlorine Gas Accident Sends 24 to Hospital
Emergency services raced to the Solent Hotel and Spa in Whiteley, Hampshire after a chemical mix-up released chlorine gas, forcing the evacuation of guests and hospitalising 24 people, including children.
Guests Suffer Fumes in Spa Chemical Mishap
The drama unfolded around 8:45pm when hazardous materials in the spa area reacted, producing chlorine gas. Several guests suffered from itchy eyes and breathing difficulties, prompting an urgent call for help.
Firefighters and ambulance crews from the South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) swiftly arrived on scene. The Hazardous Area Response Team provided breathing apparatus to assist those affected.
Firefighters Launch Rescue and Clean-Up
A Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service spokeswoman said: “A number of hotel guests had been overcome by fumes in the spa area after two chemicals had accidentally been mixed together and created chlorine gas.
Fire crews set up a casualty handling area, delivering emergency care and ventilating the spa with fans to clear the noxious fumes. Gas monitors confirmed the scene was made safe before handing control to hotel management.
24 Patients Treated & Taken to Hospital
Station Manager Dave Graham described it as “a large-scale incident” with multiple casualties requiring medical treatment for gas inhalation. SCAS deployed four ambulance officers, eight crews, and a hazardous response team to manage the crisis.
An SCAS spokeswoman confirmed that 24 patients, from children to people in their 50s, were treated for breathing problems. Those with non-life-threatening injuries were taken to University Hospital southampton/" title="Southampton" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Southampton for assessment.
Hotel Assures Guests Despite Incident
The Solent Hotel and Spa remains open for overnight stays and spa breaks. On its website, the hotel insists that safety is a top priority, adhering strictly to government COVID-19 guidelines.
“Whilst many visible signs of our safety measures have now been removed, we want you to feel reassured that your safety and our team member’s safety are of utmost importance,” the hotel states.
“We continue to operate in a very safe way – a way which has become the new normal for us and we continue to follow the government guidelines for overnight stays and dining.”
