Kneehill County has declared a State of Local Emergency for the hamlet of Swalwell and within the surrounding 1 km area. The public is advised that for the duration of the emergency, the Local Authority may take any action it deems necessary to deal with the situation.
A collision involving a train and a B-Train propane truck took place at 14:55 on March 9, 2020, at the railroad crossing located along Railway Avenue in the hamlet of Swalwell. 100 residents of Swalwell have been evacuated or displaced.
Crews remain on the scene of the train incident, working to contain the two impacted propane vessels.
“Safety is of the utmost importance for our residents and the First Responders working tirelessly to contain the scene. We’re working closely with CN Police, RCMP and local Fire Departments to mitigate the potential hazard,” said Kneehill County Reeve, Jerry Wittstock. “We ask that you please continue to avoid the affected area until notified by Local Authorities that it is safe to return.”
Evacuees from the event will not be able to return home and will require overnight lodging. Accommodations have been set up for those displaced, please check-in at the Reception Centre, which will be open until 10:00 pm, located at the Prairie Bible Institute Cafeteria, 350 5th Ave North, Three Hills, AB, for more information and instructions. After 10:00 pm, please call 1-866-443-5541 if you require accommodations.
We will update again at 9:00 a.m. March 10, 2020.
by Communications, Kneehill County
