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Fernie declares state of local emergency after at least 3 die following ammonia leak

Click to play video: 'Three killed by possible ammonia leak at arena in Fernie'
Three killed by possible ammonia leak at arena in Fernie
A state of emergency has been declared in Fernie after three people died following what is believed to be an ammonia leak at the local arena. Catherine Urquhart reports – Oct 18, 2017

The City of Fernie has declared a State of Local Emergency and issued an evacuation order in certain areas after at least three people died following an ammonia leak that happened at a hockey arena on Tuesday.

The city has ordered all homes evacuated between 9th Street and 13th Street, as well as between Highway 3 and 6th Street.

LISTEN: Fernie mayor Mary Guiliano joins Jon McComb
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The evacuation order includes businesses such as Red Apple, 7-Eleven and Trinity Lodge.

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The state of emergency will stay in effect until Oct. 24 at midnight, unless it’s cancelled by the city or the minister responsible, said a news release.

Any residents who live in the area under evacuation have been asked to contact Emergency Social Services at the Senior Citizens Drop-In Centre at 562 3rd Avenue.
FERNIE BC FATAL GAS LEAK

Several rescue crews, including a hazmat team, were on scene at the Fernie Memorial Arena after the ammonia leak on Tuesday night.

The fatalities were confirmed by the BC Coroners Service and the City of Fernie.

The latest information from the city says the site has been contained, but crews are still unable to safely enter the arena.

Streets in the area have also been closed to traffic.

WATCH: Fernie, B.C. issues state of emergency after deadly gas leak at arena:

Click to play video: 'Fernie, BC issues state of emergency after deadly gas leak at arena'
Fernie, BC issues state of emergency after deadly gas leak at arena

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