Chlorine Gas Leak at Baifikrom Water Treatment Plant: NADMO Urges Public to take Precautions
Story: GEORGINA APPIAH
The Central Regional Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) has issued a warning on chlorine gas leak at Baifikrom Water Treatment Plant and urged the public especially residents to adhere to safely measures.
A press statement issued and signed by the Central Regional Director of NADMO, Emmanuel Kwesi Dawood Mensah, indicated that “Emergency response team has managed to bring the situation under control but the team is currently on-site to contain the leak by way of neutralization”.
The team includes; “the Central Regional Disaster Management Committee, Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Ghana Health Service, NADMO Central and the Central Regional Coordinating Council.
To ensure the safety of all residents, particularly those in Baifikrom, Mankessim, Enyanmaim, and neighboring communities, the following immediate safety measures have been directed by NADMO;
1. EVACUATION AND MOVEMENT
*Move Upwind:* Chlorine gas is heavier than air and travels close to the ground. If you smell a sharp, bleach-like odor, move immediately to higher ground or in a direction where the wind is blowing toward the plant, not away from it.
*Shelter-in-Place:* If you cannot evacuate, stay indoors. Close all windows and doors. Seal gaps under doors and window frames with damp towels or cloths to trap gas particles.
*Avoid Low Areas:* Do not seek shelter in basements, valleys, or trenches, as the gas will settle in these areas.
2. HEALTH AND FIRST AID SYMPTOMS
Exposure to chlorine gas may cause stinging eyes, blurred vision, skin redness, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
If exposed:
*Eyes:* Flush eyes immediately with large amounts of clean water for at least 15 minutes.
*Skin:* Remove contaminated clothing and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water.
*Respiratory:* If experiencing shortness of breath, move to an area with fresh air and remain calm to minimize oxygen consumption.
3. EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
Medical stations have been sensitized at the Mankessim Catholic Hospital and nearby health centers. Residents experiencing persistent respiratory distress are urged to report to these facilities immediately. Any resident experiencing stinging eyes or coughing, is urged to flush eyes with water and seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility.
“The public is advised to remain calm and avoid the immediate perimeter of the Baifikrom Plant to allow emergency vehicles unhindered access”.
NADMO officials and Volunteer Groups (DVGs), according to the statement, are on the grounds to assist with orderly movements.
“We will provide further updates as the technical team from GWCL completes the isolation of the affected canisters”, the statement concluded.
