NCHD closes Sterling haunted house due to health hazards

***Press Release***


After inspecting the proposed site of a haunted house in Sterling, health officials
from the Northeast Colorado Health Department have determined the facility presents
several health concerns and are prohibiting the use of the building to the general public.

 After receiving a written complaint on Oct. 17 regarding possible health hazards
inside the abandoned hospital building located at 916 S. 7th Ave., staff members from
NCHD conducted a walk-through of the property.   During the inspection several health
hazards were identified, including, but not limited to, materials that have the potential to
contain asbestos, lead-based paint, mold, and animal feces.  Health officials determined
that the deteriorated condition of the building, including peeling paint, falling ceiling tiles,
mold, and crumbled plaster, could present a health hazard to individuals with asthma,
immune compromised individuals, or anyone with a respiratory illness.

 After conducting the inspection yesterday,  NCHD immediately sat down with a
representative from the Sterling Miracle Players, the group that is organizing the haunted
house, recommending that the facility not be used for public access until testing could be
completed to properly identify hazards.  The representative from Sterling Miracle Players
indicated they would proceed with the haunted house, disregarding the
recommendation.  It was decided at that time by NCHD that for the protection of anyone entering the building, the agency would close the facility to public use until further notice,
pursuant to CRS 25-1-506.

 "The last thing we want to do is place any kind of financial burden on a local
organization," said Dr. Tony Cappello, NCHD's district public health administrator.  "We
realize that the Sterling Miracle Players have put a lot of time, effort and money into this
project and our involvement came two days prior to their opening night; but in this
instance, we are more concerned with the health and well being of general public and
children that will enter this unsafe facility."

 According to Dr. Cappello a notice will be placed on the outside doors of the
facility today, indicating its closure to the general public.