By Prince Acquah, GNA
Cape Coast, April 07, GNA – A joint team of officials from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Water Limited, and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has successfully contained a chlorine gas leak at the Baifikrom Water Treatment Plant in the Central Region.
The cause of the leakage is yet to be established, but experts are working around the clock to fully neutralise the gas following the swift response by emergency services.
In a public alert, the Central Regional Secretariat of NADMO cautioned residents of Baifikrom, Mankessim, Enyanmaim, and surrounding communities to take immediate safety precautions, warning that exposure to the gas could pose serious health risks.
The Secretariat indicated that emergency response protocols had been activated to protect public health and manage the situation, urging residents to remain calm, strictly follow safety guidelines, and avoid the immediate vicinity of the treatment plant.
The alert, signed by Mr Emmanuel Kwesi Dawood, the Central Regional Director of NADMO, advised residents to evacuate immediately to higher ground upon detecting a sharp, bleach-like odour.
“If evacuation is not possible, residents should stay indoors, close all windows and doors, and seal gaps under doors and window frames with damp towels or cloths to prevent gas particles from entering,” the statement said.
Residents were further advised to avoid low-lying areas such as basements, valleys, and trenches, as chlorine gas tends to settle in such locations.
The statement also urged individuals exposed to the gas to rinse their eyes thoroughly with clean water and wash affected skin with soap and water, as exposure could result in stinging eyes, blurred vision, skin irritation, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
“If you experience shortness of breath, move immediately to an area with fresh air and remain calm to reduce oxygen consumption,” it added.
Meanwhile, medical stations have been established at the Mankessim Catholic Hospital and other nearby health facilities to provide medical support to affected residents.
“Any resident experiencing symptoms such as stinging eyes or persistent coughing is advised to flush their eyes with water and seek immediate medical attention at the nearest health facility,” the statement urged.
GNA
Edited by Alice Tettey/Lydia Kukua Asamoah