A spill of fire retardant occurred on the northbound lanes of Route 11 between Jacquet River and Charlo, as confirmed by the provincial government. The province provided an update via Facebook on Thursday around noon, assuring that the spill poses no threat to humans or the environment. The spill, estimated to be between 50 and 100 litres, has spread over several kilometers and has now dried, according to the latest update.
Authorities are advising the public to be cautious of personnel present at the spill site. The spill, which was initially reported by the province on Wednesday at approximately 8 p.m., is attributed to a contractor working for the Department of Natural Resources.
Fire retardant, containing ammonium polyphosphate as its primary ingredient, is commonly used to impede or halt the advancement of fires. The spill has resulted in a visually distinctive “brightly colored solution,” as described by the province.