HCH: Florina Accommodation Facility with Carbon Monoxide Leak Not a Hotel

Florina. Photo source: Visit Greece

The Hellenic Chamber of Hotels (HCH) issued a statement on Wednesday clarifying that the recent carbon monoxide leak incident at an accommodation facility in Limnochori, Florina — that led to a mass poisoning of 14 guests — does not involve a hotel business.

“In order to restore the truth regarding the recently publicized incident of carbon monoxide poisoning, it is clarified that the specific accommodation is not a hotel business,” the chamber’s announcement stated.

The incident occurred on the night of Saturday, October 27, resulting in 14 guests suffering serious health issues and requiring treatment at Florina General Hospital.

“We extend our warmest wishes for a speedy recovery to those affected,” said the chamber.

Mayor: Carbon monoxide leak linked to construction error

Speaking to the media about the incident, Amyntaio Mayor Giannis Liassis attributed the leak to a “serious construction mistake.”

According to the mayor, the accommodation’s heating system was newly installed, featuring a brand-new gas unit and furnace. Despite these updates, carbon monoxide infiltrated the rooms when guests turned on the heat due to the cold weather.

After the 14 guests were taken to the hospital, one individual remained in critical condition but is receiving medical care. Guests reported that the swift response of the Greek ambulance service (EKAV) was crucial in ensuring their survival.

Greek tourism ministry: Legal actions have been initiated

The establishment, which had recently undergone a full renovation under its new ownership, opened for business on September 12. However, the Greek Tourism Ministry revealed that the Western Macedonia Regional Tourism Office had previously imposed two fines totaling approximately 10,000 euros on the owner. The fines were issued for submitting false or inaccurate information regarding the official registration of the tourist accommodation and for operating a food service business without the necessary permits.

In light of the incident, the ministry announced that legal actions have been initiated to impose additional fines on the owner, emphasizing that the safety and health of visitors are their top priority.

The owner has been arrested and charged with endangerment and causing bodily harm through negligence. The establishment is currently closed pending further investigation.