Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center in Bethpage evacuated after ammonia leak; remains closed

The Town of Oyster Bay Ice Skating Center was evacuated Saturday night after an ammonia spill from a tank, according to Nassau County police. 

Multiple fire departments responded to the scene and contained the spill. There were no reports of injuries or sickness. Four people were evaluated by the Bethpage Fire Department but did not want further medical attention.

An employee at the rink said Sunday that it is expected to remain closed until at least Tuesday. Town officials did not respond to requests for comment.

Anhydrous ammonia is used as a safer, more ecologically friendly cooling agent to keep the ice cold than chlorofluorocarbons or CFCs. Leaks are not unusual. 

Exposure to ammonia can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, and prolonged exposure can cause asthma, blindness and pulmonary edema, according to an advisory to rink owners by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

This was not the first time the water-soluble gas has gotten out at the facility at Bethpage Community Park. In 2010, six people were taken to the hospital after a leak was detected at the center.