JACKSON, Mississippi (WLBT) – Months after several children were sent to the hospital for exposure to chlorine at a birthday pool party, the venue that hosted the event faces multiple lawsuits.
Lawyers representing four families have filed a complaint against the Metropolitan YMCA of Mississippi after they said their children were injured after being exposed to a “lethal” gas release at a Flowood YMCA pool party .
The incident happened in September. Earlier reports said about 25 children were present.
According to court records, “When both children and adults occupied the pool, there was a sudden and rapid release of toxic gases, acidic liquids and aerosolized acids, including water within the arched water jets.” Dangerous, harmful and potentially deadly atmospheric environments surrounding participants.”
Records indicate that the sounds of laughter and splashes were replaced by “rapid onset of dyspnea… violent coughing, dyspnea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, altered mental status due to hypoxemia.”
“An environment of intense panic ensued as numerous victims, both children and adults, were experiencing difficulty breathing…while parents rescued their children from the pool and administered resuscitation measures, they were released. I was trying to escape from the noxious gas that was there.”
It further claims that lifeguards and other Flowood personnel did not attempt to help during the panic.
Some children then suffer “persistent and significant damage to their airways” associated with chlorine exposure and “require long-term medical care.”
“These injuries, and the resulting physical disability, have a negative impact on the body. [their] Ability to pursue maximum range and enjoyment [their lives]”
The claim was filed in Rankin County Circuit Court. Four families filed lawsuits. Five lawsuits have been filed against her on behalf of minors.
Lawyers also filed a complaint on behalf of party hosts Christy Case and her husband, Dustin.
“Christy Case, overwhelmed with fear and anxiety, saw her family gasping for breath and desperately helped separate them from the agent in question.”
As a result of the experience, the attorney said, the case “suffered significant emotional distress manifesting as anxiety, depression, guilt and insomnia” and “requires frequent evaluation and treatment by a medical professional.” I’m here.
Dustin Case was said to have had immediate respiratory problems due to exposure to chlorine gas, and was later diagnosed with lung damage from chlorine inhalation.
Complainants allege the YMCA’s failure to provide a “safe swimming environment” consistent with federal standards and its failure to provide resuscitation assistance through its staff and personnel.
Lawyers for the family declined to comment, as did YMCA officials.
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