Chemical Smell in Sackville Sewer Prompts Evacuation of Dozens
A petroleum-based substance dumped into a catch basin in Middle Sackville, Nova Scotia, triggered a hazardous materials response and temporary evacuations on Thursday night.
Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency’s hazardous materials team responded to a chemical smell in the sewer system in Middle Sackville on Thursday. The incident occurred in the area of Claudia Crescent, Lucy Court, Flora Court, and Old Sackville Drive.
First responders arrived at 8:25 p.m. and conducted door-to-door notifications for approximately 70 households. About 15 residents self-evacuated or stayed at an evacuation centre located at the Sackville Sports Stadium overnight.
The source of the odour was identified as a petroleum-based substance dumped into a catch basin at the corner of Claudia Crescent and Flora Court. Halifax Water crews flushed water through the sewer system to isolate the material and then vacuumed it out for proper disposal.
Officials determined the situation was resolved around 3 a.m. on Friday, notifying residents it was safe to return home. The exact material and quantity of the petroleum-based substance remain unknown.
In response to the incident, the municipality issued reminders about proper hazardous waste disposal. Laura Wright, a senior public affairs adviser for HRM, stated that improper disposal creates public safety risks and environmental impacts.