July 18, 2025
RED FM News Desk
The Burnaby Fire Department responded to a hazardous materials incident in the Big Bend neighborhood Thursday night after reports of a strong chemical odor in the air.
Fire crews, utilizing portable air monitoring systems, detected bromine gas. They determined the leak originated from a building in the 8000-block of Wiggins Street.
Four workers from an adjacent business experienced symptoms consistent with inhalation exposure, including irritation to their nose, throat, and lungs. They received on-site treatment and oxygen therapy before being transported to the hospital. All four individuals are currently in stable condition.
As a precautionary measure, over 80 individuals were temporarily evacuated from nearby buildings. Fire crews monitored the chemical plume, ventilated all affected buildings, and isolated the scene with road closures and designated safety zones until it was deemed safe for people to return.
Authorities have confirmed there is no ongoing risk of exposure or further chemical release. WorkSafeBC attended the scene and will be investigating the incident.
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