Chaos at 4-Star Spa as 24 People Hospitalised in Chlorine Gas Scare
Emergency crews scrambled to the Solent Hotel and Spa in Whiteley, Hampshire, after a chemical accident released chlorine gas in the spa area. A total of 24 guests – including children – were rushed to hospital following the hazardous incident.
Spa Area Evacuated After Chemical Mix-Up
The drama unfolded at around 8.45pm when several guests began suffering from itchy eyes and breathing difficulties. Firefighters and ambulance teams were called to the scene on Rookery Avenue after reports that people had been “overcome by fumes.”
Two chemicals accidentally mixed, creating the toxic chlorine gas. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service immediately launched a rescue and clean-up operation.
First Responders Battle Toxic Fumes
Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART) from South Central Ambulance Service were on hand, equipped with breathing apparatus. Firefighters ventilated the spa with fans and removed the chemical vessel to fresh air while using gas monitors to ensure the area was safe.
“This was a large-scale incident with multiple people requiring medical treatment for the inhalation of gas,” said Station Manager Dave Graham. “We worked closely with ambulance teams to make sure everyone received help and the scene was made safe.”
Hospital Checks for Non-Life Threatening Injuries
Ambulance crews treated those affected at the scene before transferring them to University Hospital Southampton. Patients ranged from children to people in their 50s, all suffering from breathing problems caused by the noxious fumes.
An SCAS spokeswoman confirmed: “Twenty-four patients were assessed and treated for breathing difficulties, with no life-threatening injuries reported. Our teams worked alongside fire services to manage the incident efficiently.”
Hotel Reassures Guests on Safety
The Solent Hotel and Spa, still fully open for stays and treatments, emphasises safety on its website. It states that despite easing some COVID measures, guest and staff wellbeing remains a top priority, adhering to government guidelines.
