Up to 25 children at Deception Bay North State School, north of Brisbane, have been treated by paramedics after reportedly ingesting chemicals, reported 7News. It is believed students ate a chemical, known as Mystical Fire, thinking it was popping candy. Four children have been transported to hospital with minor injuries, according to paramedics.
“They’ll be fine. As I said it was only taken in small quantities and the most serious thing we can expect is vomiting and upset tummies,” Peter Batt from the Queensland Ambulance Service told media on Monday afternoon.
“The chemical can cause inflammation in the mouth but none of the children exhibited any signs of that.”
7News reports it is understood a child as young as seven or eight brought the substance to school, telling friends it was popping candy or sherbet.
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Mystical Fire is used to change the colour of flames, and is commonly sold in popular outdoor stores.
“It’s a copper based product,” said Peter Batt.
“It’s used to cause discolouration or blueish coloured flames on camping fires for entertainment.”
Some children reportedly suffered symptoms of nausea or a burning sensation at the back of their throats.
Police told News Ltd the substance was not believed to be a synthetic drug.
A statement from the Department of Education and Training says: “Emergency Services were called to Deception Bay North State School, where they treated 25 students for a range of symptoms.”
“The school followed the correct procedure and took immediate action to notify Emergency Services and parents.”
“The safety and welfare of students and staff is always the school’s highest priority.”
“The Principal is investigating the cause of the incident and if necessary, will take appropriate disciplinary action in line with the school’s Responsible Behaviour Plan for Students.”
Paramedics were called to the school at about 2.20pm on Monday afternoon.
Sourced from 7News, Featured image courtesy: www.couriermail.com.au
