‘Electrical Non-Compliances’ Found at Water Park After ‘Tragic’ Incident Left 12 Children Seriously Injured

Cultus Lake Waterpark in British Columbia has announced that it will remain closed indefinitely following a serious electrical incident that took place earlier this week. The park’s closure comes in the wake of a shocking event that left twelve children hospitalised with significant injuries.

The incident occurred on Monday, June 15, when the young visitors, aged between 12 and 13, reportedly suffered electrical shocks while waiting in a queue for one of the water slides. According to preliminary findings from Technical Safety BC (TSBC), a government-mandated organisation responsible for safety in the province, the victims came into contact with a metal railing situated in a queuing area. They experienced “electrical shock and burn injuries” as a result.

In a statement shared with media outlets, TSBC confirmed the presence of “electrical non-compliances” at the waterpark. These findings have raised serious concerns about the safety measures in place at the facility, prompting an extensive investigation by both TSBC and WorkSafe BC, which focuses on workplace health and safety in British Columbia.

In an update posted on the waterpark’s official Instagram account, management indicated that the incident occurred beyond the end of the slide at the park’s Zero to 60 attraction. The park described the area involved, explaining that a steel-framed tent structure with handrails was likely the source of the electrical shock. As a matter of urgency, the park has temporarily suspended operations and has extended its closure until at least June 22, while investigations continue.

The waterpark’s management has committed to fully cooperating with the inquiries being conducted by the relevant authorities. In a statement reassuring the public, they expressed their deep sadness over the incident and the impact it has had on the injured children and their families. “This incident was tragic,” the message read, pointing to the park’s distress regarding the events that unfolded.

Local law enforcement, including the Chilliwack Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), responded swiftly to the scene around 11:20 a.m., shortly after reports of multiple injuries began to circulate. Paramedics provided immediate medical attention to the twelve injured individuals, all of whom were subsequently transported to hospital for evaluation and treatment. While the nature of their injuries was described as serious, authorities confirmed that none were life-threatening.

In light of the ongoing investigations, the park has refrained from setting a reopening date and has reiterated that operations will not resume until it has received the necessary approvals from WorkSafe BC, TSBC, and Fraser Health. The management has emphasised that prioritising the safety and well-being of guests is paramount, and they will take every step needed to address the investigation’s findings before welcoming patrons back to the park.

As the inquiries progress, the community has expressed concern and sympathy for the affected children. Cultus Lake Waterpark has conveyed its commitment to transparency as it navigates the aftermath of this troubling incident, assuring patrons that their focus remains on ensuring safety standards are met and maintained.

The waterpark, a popular attraction located near Chilliwack, has a long-standing reputation for being a family-friendly destination. However, this recent incident has understandably caused alarm among local residents and those contemplating a visit to the facility. As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders await further findings that will ultimately determine the park’s future operations and the necessary safety reforms that may arise from this unsettling occurrence.