A poisonous chlorine escape occurred at the Baifikrom Water Treatment Facility in the Central Region, and emergency officials have issued a public warning for neighboring towns.
The Central Regional Disaster Management Committee confirmed the incident. According to a release from the regional National Disaster Management Organisiation (NADMO) Director, Emmanuel Kwesi Dawood Mensah, the leak was now under control, and repair crews remained at the scene to finish sealing it.
Several organizations are helping: Ghana Water Company Limited, the Fire Service, the Health Service, NADMO Central, and the Cape Coast Metropolitan Assembly.
He urged people living in Baifikrom, Mankessim, Enyanmaim, and nearby areas to follow safety rules to avoid harm.
Officials explained that chlorine gas sinks and stays low. If anyone smells a strong bleach-like odor, they should climb to higher ground or go upwind — meaning toward the wind’s origin.
Those who cannot leave should stay inside, close all windows and doors, and block gaps with wet rags or towels. Avoid basements or ditches where gas can collect. Health experts warn of symptoms like burning eyes, blurry sight, red skin, cough, and trouble breathing. If this happens, rinse eyes with clean water for 15 minutes, wash skin with soap and water, and get fresh air right away.
Medical staff members at Mankessim Catholic Hospital and other clinics are ready for emergencies. Anyone with lasting symptoms must see a doctor immediately.
The disaster committee also asks the public to stay calm and stay away from the Baifikrom plant so teams can work without interference.
NADMO and volunteer groups have been sent to manage crowds and help people reach safe spots.
Authorities promise more updates as they work to fully isolate and secure the damaged chlorine containers.
