East Bay Water Park Closed After 10 Hospitalized, 40 Sickened From Chemical

The Antioch Water Park remains closed today following an incident Thursday in which about 40 people, mostly children, fell ill from a possible chemical exposure.

The chemical in question was most likely chlorine, however the park’s staff are testing the water to find out exactly what the chemical is and how the exposure happened, according to a spokeswoman with the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.

Additionally, the Contra Costa County Environmental Health Department is expected to review the facility this afternoon, spokeswoman Nancy Kaiser said.

At 2:30 p.m. on Thursday water park staff closed the facility, located at 4701 Lone Tree Way, in response to the chemical malfunction in one of the park’s five swimming pools. Emergency crews initially arrived at the park after a child began complaining of respiratory problems after swimming, according to Contra Costa Fire Protection District.

At least 10 people were taken to the hospital Thursday following the incident, fire officials said.

--Bay City News