FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRINCE GEORGE, BC – Following the BC Emergency Alert issued at 5:30 p.m. on March 14 ordering residents in the Heritage area to evacuate due to a gas leak, the City of Prince George is providing an additional update.
Prince George Fire Rescue responded to a home in the 300 block of Carrier Place yesterday afternoon at approximately 2:11 p.m. following reports of a gas odour. Upon arrival, crews detected high levels of natural gas in and around the home. Further investigation determined that the hazardous gas readings extended beyond the residence in question.
FortisBC attended the scene and confirmed the readings identified by PGFR crews. With assistance from the RCMP and BC Hydro, surrounding blocks were evacuated, and the immediate area was “de-energized,” meaning BC Hydro shut off power to the area to minimize any chance of ignition.
FortisBC crews located the source of the leak shortly after arriving, and gas service to the affected line was shut off. PGFR crews remained on scene for several hours monitoring gas levels in the affected properties.
There were no injuries reported. The cause of the leak remains under investigation by FortisBC crews, who are still on site working on repairs.
“We appreciate the swift actions of residents in the evacuation area who responded immediately to the alert,” said Fire Chief Bryan Burleigh. “We know these alerts can create fear and confusion, and situations like this can evolve rapidly. Safety is always our number one priority, which is why it was necessary to evacuate the area.”
“Yesterday also showcased top-level teamwork from our fire department and emergency management teams, as well as the RCMP, FortisBC, and BC Hydro. Everyone acted with the utmost professionalism and urgency in responding to this situation.”
Residents of units 101–109 at 448 Tabor Boulevard were provided overnight accommodations through the City’s Emergency Support Services program.
Residents are able to return to the complex to collect belongings; however, the building still has no heat. Emergency Support Services will continue to support affected residents until they are able to return to their homes.
Impacted residents needing support can call 250-614-7838 to arrange accommodation.
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Media contact:
Claire Thwaites, communications manager
Mobile: 778-349-1386
Email: media@princegeorge.ca