Residents in Metro Vancouver reported a strong burning smell on Sunday morning, which was traced back to the Parkland refinery in north Burnaby. The intense odor was particularly concentrated in East Vancouver and the adjoining area of north Burnaby, causing concern among local residents.
Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services Assistant Chief Pierre Morin initially stated that the source of the smell was unclear, prompting a response from 15 fire trucks that patrolled the streets in an effort to find the cause. It was later determined that the smell was emanating from the Parkland refinery near Confederation Park.
A CBC News reporter described the smell as “acrid burning, like plastic or chemical,” as firefighters from the Burnaby Fire Department stood by near the refinery in response to the incident.
Vancouver Fire Chief Karen Fry took to social media to inform residents of a “hydro carbon industrial event” in Burnaby, explaining that smoke and odors from the refinery were making their way into Vancouver. Morin also advised people to stay indoors and close their windows as a precaution, while the provincial Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy suggested that overwhelmed residents remain at home.
The City of Vancouver encouraged those affected by the odor to move indoors to community centers or libraries, with the fire department issuing a warning about the smell. Meanwhile, the Parkland Refinery had previously informed Burnaby residents of potential flare and noise disruptions due to their operational activities.
In response to this incident, the refinery emphasized its commitment to safe and efficient operations while minimizing impacts on the community. Despite their assurance, concern remains regarding the environmental and health implications of the strong burning smell that engulfed Metro Vancouver on Sunday morning. The ongoing incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with industrial operations in urban areas.