Hundreds of residents in south Ottawa were evacuated Tuesday night after a propane tanker overturned and leaked flammable gas [1], [2].
The incident created a significant public safety hazard in a residential area, requiring a mandatory evacuation zone to prevent potential explosions or fire.
The crash occurred on Parkway Road near Cedar Lane [1], [2]. According to Ottawa Fire Services, the tanker was carrying 7,000 litres of propane [1]. A broken hose caused the gas to leak into the surrounding area, prompting officials to establish an evacuation radius of approximately 800 metres [1], [2].
Emergency crews worked through the night to contain the leak and secure the vehicle. Once the site was deemed safe, officials said the displaced residents could return to their homes at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday [1].
Dan Kirvan, the special operations chief for Ottawa Fire Services, oversaw the response to the leak [1]. The driver of the tanker has been charged with careless driving under the Highway Traffic Act [1].
Local authorities said there were no injuries resulting from the crash or the subsequent evacuation process [1], [2].
“A propane tanker carrying 7,000 litres overturned, leaked gas, and prompted a mandatory evacuation.”
The rapid establishment of an 800-metre evacuation zone highlights the high volatility of propane when transported in bulk through residential corridors. The subsequent careless driving charge suggests that investigators believe the crash was preventable, raising questions about transport safety protocols on local Ottawa roads.
