Students at a primary school in Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do Complained of Headaches and Dizziness During Science Experiment

An incident occurred at a primary school in Cheongju, Chungbuk, where students complained of headaches and dizziness during a science experiment and were transported to the hospital.

According to the Chungbuk Fire Headquarters, a report was received around 11:17 AM on the 1st stating that 'students are complaining of headaches and dizziness' at a primary school in Ochang-eup, Cheongju. In response, the 119 emergency service immediately dispatched an ambulance to transport 13 students and 1 teacher to a nearby hospital.

The experiment that caused the problem was intended to recreate a volcanic eruption and involved a total of 21 participants, including teachers and students. They were putting marshmallows and food coloring into aluminum cups and heating them, during which abnormal symptoms were reported.

The fire authorities stated, "As of now, there are no patients classified as seriously injured," adding, "We are investigating the exact cause, keeping in mind the possibility that gases released during the experiment may be responsible."

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of creating a safe experimental environment in schools.

Particularly in experiments that use chemical substances or heating equipment, prior safety education and thorough supervision are necessary. Education authorities plan to strengthen safety guidelines for science classes in light of this incident.

Image source: Primary school science lab. / Photo provided by Cheongju Dongbu Fire Station, illustrative material for better understanding of the article / gettyimagesbank