The Saskatchewan Health Authority confirmed reports on social media that a reported gas leak prompted the evacuation of all staff and patients from the Weyburn General Hospital this afternoon.
"The SHA’s immediate priority is ensuring patient safety and we are actively coordinating with Weyburn Police Service, Weyburn Fire Department and SaskEnergy to manage this situation," the statement to the media read.
A total of 22 patients have been evacuated to local care homes, and EMS is on standby to support evacuated patients. Anyone in the Weyburn area requiring urgent or emergent care is urged to call 9-1-1 or travel to the nearest hospital outside of Weyburn.
According to a second release from the SHA, the services at the hospital, including the emergency department, remain on disruption. Anyone in the Weyburn area requiring urgent or emergent care is urged to call 9-1-1 or travel to the nearest hospital outside of Weyburn.
The Weyburn Fire Department and Weyburn Police Service assisted with the evacuation of the Weyburn General Hospital after a gas leak was reported. (Photo by Mack Kohl)
The evacuation process was smooth, but harrowing, said one woman who was at the hospital at the time it happened. Not wanting to be identified, she said she was in the lab on the 4th floor when the code green sounded.
"The smell got stronger and stronger as we went down the stairs," she said, noting the smell was so strong it seemed like it was still on her clothes well after leaving the hospital.
The SHA issued a message of gratitude in their second release of the day, stating "The SHA would like to thank evacuated patients for their cooperation and understanding during this ongoing evacuation. We would also like to thank our staff, physicians, and paramedics for their quick response to ensure the safety of our patients and staff throughout this ongoing situation. We extend our thanks to the Weyburn Police Service, Weyburn Fire Department, and SaskEnergy for their support in coordinating the evacuation and ongoing investigation."
The SHA stated they would provide further updates, including when services are expected to resume, as more information becomes available.