Evacuation order lifted but questions remain after fatal ammonia leak in Fernie

FERNIE (NEWS 1130) – There are still no answers about the cause of an ammonia leak that killed three men at an ice rink in the East Kootenay community of Fernie last week.

Wayne Hornquist, 59, and Lloyd Smith, 52, and Jason Podloski, 46, died at the Fernie Memorial Arena after the gas leak.

95 people have been allowed to return to their homes, after an evacuation order for 55 homes in the area was lifted.

“The situation at the arena has stabilized and the experts on scene are now comfortable that there is no longer an ammonia threat at the arena,” says Fire Chief Ted Ruiter.

“Air quality monitoring will continue and although residents may notice an intermittent ammonia odour near the arena, we want to assure them there are no risks of health hazards.”

“The response on the scene is now transitioning from an emergency response to a clean-up operation.”

 

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Two of the men, Horquist and Smith, worked for the City of Fernie. The City’s chief administrative officer, Norm McInnis has offered an emotional thanks to municipal employees.

“Our staff have shown tremendous strength throughout this difficult time and the City will be offering as much support as we can.”

“While all of our employees will be doing our best, we’re asking the public to understand that over the coming days and weeks there will be some interruptions in service.”

He’s also thanked volunteers and the local fire chief.

“We want to thank you and your team along with other members of our team for your tireless efforts this week under unimaginable circumstances.”

“We are so grateful for their efforts and the kindness and compassion they’ve shown throughout the last few days.”

A community memorial is being planned to honour the men, and to show how much they meant to the community. There is no confirmed date for the memorial but it is likely to be held in November.

Counselling is being made available to those dealing with grief and stress.

Investigators are still trying to piece together a timeline leading up to the deaths.

Ammonia is used in mechanical refrigeration systems, including those in ice rinks. The colourless gas is toxic if inhaled.

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