Chemical Incident at Christchurch Daycare Prompts Major Emergency Response
An urgent situation unfolded today at a childcare facility in Christchurch's Woolston suburb, where a suspected chemical incident prompted a significant emergency response. Multiple individuals required medical attention, with one person transported to Christchurch Hospital in a serious condition.
Swift Mobilization of Emergency Services
Emergency services were alerted at 1:13 PM, swiftly mobilizing a comprehensive response. St John Ambulance deployed six ambulances, two rapid response units, and three operations managers, making up 14 emergency vehicles on the scene. Paramedics immediately began treating the affected patients.
Children Reportedly Exposed to Cleaning Chemical
A parent connected to the centre informed RNZ that it is believed three children were exposed to a chemical reportedly used for cleaning a slide. While the specific chemical remains unidentified by the parent, their own child was not among those affected. An RNZ reporter at the scene witnessed a child being loaded into an ambulance, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Hazmat Unit Deployed Amid Ongoing Investigation
As a crucial precautionary measure, Fire and Emergency New Zealand dispatched firefighters from two stations, including a specialized hazmat unit, to assess and mitigate any potential chemical hazards. The childcare centre, when approached by RNZ for comment, declined to provide a statement. Authorities are expected to conduct further investigations to determine the exact cause and nature of the substance involved in this concerning incident.