A section of the National Zoo was closed on March 17 following an explosion caused by an employee who mixed some chemicals. Authorities declared the zoo safe to be reopened to the public on March 18.
The D.C. Fire Department responded to a reported chemical explosion in the American Trail area in the zoo. According to zoo officials, there was a "loud boom," but no fire or smoke. The incident caused no injuries to both animals and visitors inside the recreational area.
"There was an incident related to chlorine on American Trail, near the otters and beavers," said zoo spokeswoman Devin Murphy.
"No humans were hurt. No animals were hurt. We cleared the area and D.C. Fire is on scene and they're investigating," she added.
On Twitter, National Zoo said that the area where the incident happened has been closed as a precaution.
Due to an incident on American Trail, the area is closed. No visitors,staff or animals are injured. DCFD is on the scene & investigating — National Zoo (@NationalZoo) March 17, 2016
Pamela Baker-Masson, another spokeswoman, said that the incident happened in the mechanical room where the life support system is located. The zoo uses chlorine in the filtration process for the system. Baker-Masson said their contractor, who does routine work in the room, smelled chlorine and immediately left the area. Then they heard the explosion.
DCFD gave all clear for staff to check outdoor animal habitats on American Trail. Animals accounted for &doing well pic.twitter.com/kvU293Tfd1 — National Zoo (@NationalZoo) March 17, 2016
The American Trail area consists of animals like beavers, otters, California sea lions, wolves and eagles.
Does Chlorine Cause Explosions?
Chlorine is usually used to clean swimming pools and other water systems. It is a highly efficient disinfectant and is added to public water supplies to kill disease-causing pathogens.
This chemical, however, can cause explosions. There had been cases where the chlorine used to disinfect water in swimming pools caused major injuries and burns on people. The chemical can explode when mixed improperly with other chemicals.
Our American Trail exhibit will be open tomorrow, March 18. Check out our daily programs: https://t.co/zR3AHrP4Gl pic.twitter.com/4qaqxuKW2v
— National Zoo (@NationalZoo) March 17, 2016
