The Central Regional Disaster Management Committee has confirmed a chlorine gas leakage at the Baifikrom Water Treatment Plant, prompting an emergency response and safety advisory for residents in surrounding communities.
In a statement issued by the Central Regional Director of NADMO and Secretary to the Committee, Emmanuel Kwesi Dawood Mensah, authorities said the situation has been brought under control, with technical teams currently on-site working to fully contain and neutralize the leak.
The response effort involves multiple agencies, including the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the Ghana Health Service, NADMO Central, and the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly.
Residents in Baifikrom, Mankessim, Enyanmaim, and nearby areas have been urged to strictly adhere to safety directives to minimize exposure to the gas.
Authorities explained that chlorine gas is heavier than air and tends to remain close to the ground. As a result, residents who perceive a strong bleach-like odor are advised to move immediately to higher ground or relocate in an upwind direction—towards the source of the wind rather than away from it.
Those unable to evacuate have been instructed to remain indoors, shut all windows and doors, and seal any openings with damp cloths or towels to prevent the gas from entering enclosed spaces. Residents have also been cautioned against seeking shelter in low-lying areas such as basements or trenches, where the gas is more likely to accumulate.
Health officials warn that exposure to chlorine gas may cause symptoms including eye irritation, blurred vision, skin redness, coughing, and difficulty breathing. In such cases, residents are advised to rinse affected eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes, wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water, and seek fresh air immediately if experiencing respiratory discomfort.
Medical personnel at the Mankessim Catholic Hospital and other nearby health facilities have been placed on alert to respond to any emergency cases. Residents experiencing persistent symptoms have been urged to seek immediate medical attention.
The Disaster Management Committee has also advised the public to remain calm and avoid the immediate vicinity of the Baifikrom Water Treatment Plant to allow emergency teams to operate without obstruction.
NADMO officials and Disaster Volunteer Groups have been deployed to assist with crowd control and guide residents to safety where necessary.
Authorities say further updates will be provided as efforts continue to fully isolate and secure the affected chlorine canisters.
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