Last Friday at about 2:45 p.m., residents in  Taber’s northwest area smelt something a little foul.
As it turned out, a 60 millimetre gas link had been struck and severed, which created a considerable gas leak. Residents nearby the leak were evacuated, as Taber Emergency Services crews and ATCO Gas staff attended to the leak. Precautionary evacuations south and west of the incident also took place.
Mike Bos, the acting fire chief for Taber Emergency Services, said crews on site made the right call when evacuations were ordered.
“They set up a half-kilometre evacuation area, and while it might have been a lit bit of overkill, you’re better off being safe than sorry.”
The Taber Police Service also responded to the gas line leak, which was in the 4400 block of 57 Avenue. Police cordoned off traffic to the area, as work continued to deal with the leak.
ATCO Gas was able to crimp the line at approximately 4 p.m., and those affected were allowed to return to their homes.
Bos said the leak was fairly serious in nature, but added everyone came together to pull off an operation that ensured the safety of area residents.
“I think the initial plan was good.”
He went on to say ATCO gas should be called in the case of a gas leak, and added the fire department also has gas-detecting equipment, should it be called upon.