The gas emission discovered in Wheatley has now stopped and T. L. Watson and Associates, Chatham-Kent’s oil and gas expert who oversaw previous Wheatley incidents, has confirmed there are no imminent risks to public safety, Municipal officials say.
Chatham-Kent Fire and Rescue Services (CKFR) also conducted gas checks in homes closest to the incident site and no gas was detected.
Residents temporarily displaced from their homes are permitted to return.
All roads have reopened and Entegrus has restored power to the area.
The Wheatley Library branch will remain closed until further notice while the investigation continues.
Chatham-Kent Economic Development and Tourism Services’ dedicated Wheatley Economic Development Officer is currently on scene to assisting businesses affected by the situation.
CKFR remains on scene and is conducting air monitoring every 30 minutes to ensure ongoing public safety.
“This was a terrible incident for everyone still affected by the 2021 event,” said Chatham-Kent Fire Chief Chris Case, in a media release
“However, we quickly assembled all agencies and the experts we have relied on over the past years and were able to determine the community could return to their homes. We appreciate the support and understanding from everyone involved.”
Mayor Darrin Canniff added: “I am extremely thankful that this situation was quickly resolved through rapid response and teamwork from multiple agencies and cooperation from Wheatley residents. The people of Wheatley have been through so much over the last few years, and this incident is a firm reminder of the importance of vigilance and monitoring in the community.”
Yesterday at 1:45 p.m., CKFR crews responded to reports of an odour behind 35 Talbot Street West in Wheatley.
It was found that hydrogen sulfide gas was emanating from a small area near the back of the property.
Once the gas was discovered, an immediate evacuation of the area took place and Windsor Fire Rescue’s Provincial Hazardous Materials (HAZ MAT) Team was called in to assist.
Chatham-Kent Police Service (CKPS) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were also on scene to support public safety efforts.
As a precaution, the Wheatley Arena was opened as a temporary evacuation centre.
Chatham-Kent Employment and Social Services coordinated temporary lodging for all residents displaced by the incident.
Numerous other agencies also assisted with the incident, including:
– Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission
– Chatham-Kent Victim Services
– Enbridge
– Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks
– Ministry of Natural Resources
– Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response
– Geological scientists from the University of Windsor
For immediate notifications in times of emergency, residents are encourage to sign up for CKAlert at www.CKAlert.ca.
