Red Crow College fire propels dangerous asbestos into air
Posted Aug 14, 2015 12:37 pm.
Last Updated Aug 14, 2015 5:31 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
A morning fire that destroyed a community college on the Blood Reserve near Cardston sent dangerous asbestos into the air Friday afternoon.
The Red Crow Community College, about 100 kilometres southwest of Lethbridge, caught fire at around 4 a.m. Friday.
The Blood Tribe Chief & Council, “with great sadness”, confirmed the blaze on social media.
RED CROW COMMUNITY COLLEGE FIRE:For Immediate Release – Friday Aug. 14/15It is with great sadness to confirm that Red…
Posted by Blood Tribe Chief & Council Page on Friday, 14 August 2015
Emergency crews battled the flames that engulfed a large portion of the main structure.
The local council advised people to refrain from driving by to look at the site and closed the incoming road due to asbestos fibers in the air.
A number of families living near the building were told to vacate their homes as a precaution.
Hundreds of students attended the college. The building was formerly a residential school until closing down in the 80’s.
There have been no reports of injuries.
The cause of the fire is unclear.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Blood Tribe Police at 403-737-3800.
An update on the fire and relocation of the Campus is expected to be released Monday after a special Council & RCCC Meeting.
Families affected by the Red Crow College evacuation are encouraged to contact the Red Cross at the Wellness Centre at 403-737-3883 to register.
