Haz-mat Response - 225 Betts Avenue
At approximately 8:51 this morning, the Saskatoon Fire Department and Emergency Management Organization were alerted by the Saskatoon Police Service to a suspicious package containing an unknown substance in a commercial retail warehouse located at 225 Betts Avenue.
One fire engine, one haz-mat unit, one decontamination unit, one mobile command unit, and one battalion chief were dispatched for immediate response.
Upon arrival, fire crews confirmed incident details and placed two employees and two police officers into isolation as a precaution. The affected area was confined to the back shipping and receiving room; the Saskatoon Police Service restricted entry to the building and all customers who had been shopping at the time were instructed to shelter in place.
Available information had indicated the possibility of a hazardous substance within the package. Haz-mat crews prepared for entry and began conducting tests of the unknown substance. All tests produced negative results and were confirmed to be non-hazardous. The individuals who had been placed into isolation were released and all customers were permitted to exit the building.
There were no injuries reported as a result of this incident and there is no risk to public safety.
The Saskatoon Fire Department and the Emergency Management Organization have concluded on scene and this incident has been left with the Saskatoon Police Service.