A wave of alarm swept through the Canmore Inn & Suites Sunday morning as reports surfaced of multiple children falling ill after swimming in the hotel pool. Emergency services were immediately dispatched, bracing for a potential mass casualty event as worried parents looked on.
Initial reports indicated a significant number of children were affected, prompting a large-scale response from Alberta Emergency Health Services. Ambulances converged on the hotel, prepared to transport numerous young patients, but the situation quickly evolved as paramedics began assessing the children.
Fortunately, the initial fears proved largely unfounded. While eleven children ultimately required medical attention, the majority were determined to be in stable condition. Nine were transported to Canmore General Hospital by their families, while one child was taken by ambulance due to more serious, though still stable, symptoms.
One young patient’s condition warranted further specialized care, leading to a transfer by ground ambulance to the Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary. Medical personnel described the situation as difficult and stressful, but praised the swift and effective response of paramedics and hospital staff.
The Town of Canmore’s Fire and Rescue team also responded, quickly securing the area and ensuring there was no ongoing threat to the public. As a precaution, the hotel pool was immediately closed pending further investigation.
The incident coincided with a U7 hockey tournament, bringing many families to Canmore for the weekend. A parent shared on social media that numerous families were staying at the hotel, adding to the anxiety as news of the illnesses spread.
Local RCMP officers were present at the scene but have confirmed they are not conducting an investigation. Authorities have assured the public that the risk has been contained, and the focus remains on the well-being of the affected children.
The cause of the children’s illness remains unknown, but officials are working to determine what led to this unsettling event. The community is now focused on supporting the families involved and hoping for a full and speedy recovery for all those affected.
