11 Children Hospitalized After Suspected Chemical Exposure at Canmore Hotel Pool

Emergency crews declared a mass casualty incident Sunday after 11 children fell ill following a suspected chemical exposure from the indoor swimming pool at the Canmore Inn and Suites, prompting multiple hospitalizations.

The incident occurred the morning of Jan. 25, when witnesses reported a strong odour inside the pool area, followed by vomiting and coughing among children staying at the hotel for a weekend hockey tournament. Canmore Fire-Rescue, Emergency Health Services and RCMP were dispatched to the scene.

“There were approximately 30 children in the pool area who were exhibiting symptoms of illness, like vomiting,” said Adam Robertson, manager of communications for the Town of Canmore. “Based on the nature of the complaint and the location of the incident within the business, Canmore Fire-Rescue automatically considered chemical exposure.”

Crews evacuated pool users to a triage area near the hotel lobby, where patients were assessed by paramedics.

“Nine stable and non-life-threatening patients were assessed at the scene by EHS paramedics and instructed to present to Canmore General Hospital in the care of their parents,” said Kristin Whitworth, public health communications lead for Alberta Health Services. “One patient was transported by ambulance to Canmore General Hospital.”

In total, 11 children were assessed at Canmore General Hospital. Ten were in stable, non-life-threatening condition, while one patient was later transferred to Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary in serious but stable condition.

Air monitoring conducted by Fire-Rescue detected elevated levels of a hazardous substance in the pool area, suspected to be chlorine based on patient symptoms and the location of the incident. The affected areas were cordoned off and ventilation measures were implemented using the building’s ventilation system and a standalone fan. Following ventilation efforts, an independent contractor retained by the hotel assessed the pool and mechanical room and determined there was no immediate danger.

Premier Danielle Smith commented on the incident, wishing those affected a full recovery and thanking first responders for their quick response.

Public health issues at hotel pools are not uncommon in Alberta, according to Alberta Health Services Environmental Public Health records. Between 2018 and 2025, hotel pools accounted for six of eight recreational water facility closure orders issued by AHS, with half occurring at hotels in the Bow Valley region.

RCMP say the incident does not appear to be criminal in nature and that there is no ongoing risk to the public, with no additional illnesses reported as of publication, though the pool remains closed as Canmore Fire-Rescue continues its investigation.