Several children experienced a burning sensation on their hands and faces after playing in a Whitehorse park last weekend.

Whitehorse RCMP say that on Sunday evening, three children reported the symptoms, consistent with exposure to bear spray, after playing at Lazulite Park in Copper Ridge.

By Monday afternoon, the number of children affected had grown to seven.

But police say they are unable to confirm whether bear spray or a similar agent was used directly at the location.

No bear spray canisters were found after officers patrolled the park and surrounding area.

And the RCMP say that bear spray could have been used in the vicinity and travelled to the playground, where it settled on the play structures. They note there have recently been bear sightings in the area.

Before the symptoms were reported, RCMP received a complaint of a suspicious person at the park at around 7 p.m on Sunday.

After speaking to a woman at the park, police determined that no illegal activity was taking place.

City parks supervisor Marc Boulerice said Monday afternoon that Lazulite Park is now open and safe for use again.

Following the complaints, park equipment was hosed down by Whitehorse firefighters.

City parks staff also cleaned it with soap and water.

“We really don’t know what caused it or why someone did that,” Boulerice said of the incident.

“Vandalism is quite frequent, but we’ve never had something like this. It does raise the question: is it malicious or is it accidental?”

If anyone sees broken equipment, vandalism or litter at any Whitehorse park, Boulerice said, they should report it to the Parks and Recreation Department. Signage with the park’s number is posted at every park.

Suspicious activity or more information about this incident can be reported to the RCMP.

According to bearsmart.com, bear spray affects humans the same ways it affects a bear.

A person exposed to bear spray will experience swelling and irritation in the mucous membranes of their eyes, nose and lungs.

To deal with exposure, the site recommends taking short, shallow breaths to avoid breathing in the spray, removing contact lenses and washing all contaminated clothing and affected areas.