Emergency services respond to explosion at Taber Community Centre

Times Photo by Trevor Busch. EXPLOSION: An incident occurred at the Taber Community Centre approximately 4 p.m. on Dec. 17.

Town of Taber

At approximately 4 p.m. on Dec. 17, an incident occurred at the Taber Community Centre while staff and members of the public were inside the building. Emergency procedures were activated immediately, and the building was evacuated as a precaution.

All staff and patrons were accounted for, and no injuries have been reported.

“This outcome reflects the quick response of emergency crews, the calm actions of citizens, and Town staff following established emergency procedures, with additional support from third-party utility providers,” reads a statement from the Town of Taber posted to social media at 7 p.m. on Wednesday. “Security remains on site, and the public must stay away from the affected areas while investigations and assessments continue.”

The cause of the incident is still under investigation and has not been confirmed. Preliminary information suggests an explosion occurred in the arena area; however, investigations are ongoing and no conclusions have been reached at this time. Extensive damage has been observed in parts of the Community Centre, and detailed damage assessments are underway. As part of emergency response procedures, the ammonia plant was safely isolated and is not a cause for concern. More information will be shared as findings are confirmed.

Facility Status

•The Aquafun Centre is undamaged and will remain open under regular operating hours

•The Auditorium is undamaged, but closed due to the gas being shut off to the Centre

•The Large and Small Ice Arenas are closed until further notice due to damage

•The Curling Club is closed until further notice due to damage

•Leased facilities within the Community Centre are closed pending safety reviews

Traffic Access & Closures

•48 Avenue is closed until further notice

•The Community Centre parking lot is closed until further notice

•The Aquafun Centre parking lot remains open

Ice Surface Bookings & Programming

•Users with ice bookings will be contacted directly by staff as soon as possible regarding cancellations, rescheduling, or next steps

•Information on other program impacts and service interruptions will be shared once decisions are confirmed

Mental Health Help is Available

“We recognize this is distressing news, particularly for a facility that is well loved and heavily used by the community,” continued the statement. “Anyone feeling anxious or overwhelmed is encouraged to seek support. Alberta’s free Mental Health Helpline is available 24 hours a day at 1-877-303-2642.”

Next Steps

Crews will continue damage assessments in the coming days. The Town will provide updates as information becomes available. 

Next Updates:

This is the final update for December 17th. 

A further update is expected today.

“Updates will be provided as soon as possible. We appreciate the public’s patience while we work to get information to you as soon as possible as when we are allowed to pending investigations.”