Barracks evacuated
Possible propane leak sends cadets from barracks.
A possible propane leak prompted the evacuation of 252 cadets from three barracks at HMCS Acadia Cadet Training Centre late Sunday evening.
Four cadets were taken to Digby General Hospital for observation and later returned to Cornwallis Park in good condition, Captain Lorie Green said Monday.
Green said at about 9:30 p.m. Sunday an odor was reported, possibly propane, although it has never been confirmed. She said one cadet was exhibiting symptoms of illness and was taken to hospital. Subsequently three more were sent to hospital but all four were back on base in good health by 2 a.m.
Bear River firefighters were on the scene along with those from Smiths Cove and Annapolis Royal, she said. Initially the barracks where the odor was detected was evacuated but later, as a precaution, two others were evacuated as well.
Cadets were assessed by Emergency Health Services and gathered in the dining hall until firefighters, who were checking the barracks for gas levels, indicated it was safe to return. She said the all-clear was given at about 12:40 a.m. and the cadets returned to their buildings.
Green praised the quick actions and professionalism of staff.
Alex Morrison, municipal councilor for the district was at the scene late Sunday evening and said it appeared everything was under control and it appeared everybody was safe. He said there was no panic.
Morrison, who lives nearby, said he saw about 20 kids on the grass with no sign of injuries and said they were being tended to at the scene.