Around 1,000 people were forced to evacuate the Rocky Ridge YMCA in Calgary’s northwest on Friday due to an ammonia leak. The Calgary Fire Department received a report at around 11:05 a.m. indicating the ammonia alarm at the facility had been activated. Upon arrival, crews found the building already being evacuated. CFD Public Information Officer Carol Henke explained that the alarm detected ammonia at around eight parts per million in the room where the leak originated. “Even a lower amount would be really uncomfortable. It would cause your eyes to sting and water, and is dangerous to breathe in,” said Henke. This marked the third time in just over a week that the ammonia monitoring alarms had been activated, following previous triggers on July 3 and July 5. In a statement to Global News, YMCA Calgary officials acknowledged the disruptions caused by the evacuations and apologized for any inconvenience. “Our monitoring systems and safety protocols are working as intended – and that is a positive outcome. This means that our systems are effectively detecting and responding to even trace amounts of ammonia, ensuring the safety of everyone in the facility,” said YMCA Calgary. The organization added that they are continuing to work with experts to review the incident and determine if any additional measures are needed to address the root cause. “We are committed to maintaining a safe environment for all our members and visitors, and we appreciate your understanding and patience as we address this issue,” said YMCA Calgary. Ammonia is used in the operation of the YMCA’s ice rinks, and on each of the three occasions there had been small releases of the gas in a utility room at the Rocky Ridge facility. To address the issue, extensive equipment testing has been conducted, including the replacement of numerous valves and pipes. “Management is frustrated, as are all the patrons who had to evacuate, and they are going to be working diligently at figuring out why the ammonia alarm went off three separate times,” said Henke. The Rocky Ridge YMCA has since reopened to the public. A fire truck had just left the Rocky Ridge YMCA when the ammonia alarm sounded. Henke mentioned that fire crews often visit events as part of the department’s community engagement program. “We did have a fire truck at the (YMCA) Stampede Breakfast and they had just left so the response time was very good,” she joked.
