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West Kelowna hotel evacuated, several people treated for chemical exposure

Click to play video: 'Chemical gas released at Okanagan hotel'
Chemical gas released at Okanagan hotel
Chemical gas released at Okanagan hotel – Mar 11, 2019

UPDATED 7:30 p.m.

Emergency crews were called to a hazardous chemical situation at the Best Western hotel in West Kelowna.

An emergency incident was reported at the facility off Carrington Rd. around 3:45 p.m. on Monday, prompting about 20 employees and guests to evacuate.

One person, a pool attendant, has been taken to hospital in unknown condition, according to West Kelowna fire chief Jason Brolund.

Two more employees showed signs of exposure to the gas and were assessed by paramedics, he said.

The Kelowna Fire Department hazmat team was deployed to assist retrieving the chemicals involved in the accident, which are said to be muriatic acid and chlorine, according to Brolund.

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Yellow police tape has been draped across the entrance of the hotel.

Hotel guests impacted by the chemical incident are being taken care of by Best Western staff.

The hotel has yet to return to normal operation.

Brolund said the chemical smell in the building is quite strong and believes the hotel will remain out of service for the entire night.

A fire crew remains at the hotel assessing the air quality situation.

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