Police say nearly a dozen people were hospitalized after a 5 gallon container of acid was accidentally knocked over in a neighborhood YMCA.

Fire officials coordinated the evacuation of the Tarrytown YMCA Monday afternoon after reports of a strong chemical smell. Police say workers at the YMCA were trying to lower the pool?s pH level when a 5 gallon container of acid was accidentally knocked over. Many were treated for breathing problems.

?When chlorine mixes with fluids in your lungs it becomes hydrochloric acid,? said Sgt. Frank Giampiccolo. ?That causes a burning feeling in your lungs.?

Seven area departments and the Westchester hazmat team were called to the scene along with representatives from the DEC and the Red Cross. Police say the hazmat team plans on conducting a full investigation.