One person died following an ammonia leak from an Arctic Glacier ice plant, located in an industrial area of Kamloops, British Columbia, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has confirmed. ). About eight people were injured.
The incident occurred around 11 a.m. at 790 Sarcee Street East in the Mount Paul Industrial Park area.
When emergency crews arrived at the scene soon after, they found there was a cloud of ammonia in the area. The gas leaked from a bottle at the ice plant, said Kamloops Fire Department Deputy Chief Ryan Cail.
Ammonia is a colorless toxic gas, which gives off a strong odor. Inhalation of it can be irritating to the eyes and the respiratory system in small quantities, but it can be fatal with prolonged exposure. This gas is commonly used in mechanical refrigeration systems.
In 2017, three people died after being exposed to an ammonia leak in an arena in Fernie, southeastern British Columbia.
WorkSafeBc and the Provincial Coroners Service are investigating the incident.
Two people were hospitalized, injured being treated on the spot
On Thursday, the province’s Emergency Department said three people were taken to the hospital, one in serious condition and two in stable condition. These authorities confirmed the first of them died.
Emergency crews attended about six other people who were injured but were in stable condition at the scene.
Police were at the scene, assisting with traffic control and tactical evacuation. The priority is public safetysaid Sergeant Crystal Evelyn, spokeswoman for the RCMP detachment in Kamloops
Most areas in the area have reopened to traffic, except for the immediate area near 700 Sarcee Streethe says.
Kamloops Mayor Ken Christian said the risk to the public is low if they move away from the area.
” Just stay away from that particular address and let the Kamloops fire and rescue crews do their job. “
More details to come …
Source: Radio-Canada
