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Buildings evacuated in and around Halifax’s Dutch Village Road on Thursday afternoon could remain that way into Friday because of an unstable crane.
First responders were called to the area at 4:40 p.m. by the Department of Labour on Thursday afternoon over concerns the crane — at 3644 Dutch Village Road — could collapse. By evening, Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency Assistant Chief Philip Thorburn told CBC News the crane needs to come down as a precaution.
“The crane had some mechanical issues with some fasteners that attach the crane together so out of precaution, we are securing the area. We’ve asked people to stay out of the area. We’ll probably have the area shut down for 24 hours,” Thorburn told CBC News.
Thorburn said the Canadian Red Cross will help people who need somewhere to stay. He said there’s a lot of construction around Halifax, but that calls like this don’t happen too frequently.
No one is trapped and no rescue was required, Thorburn said.
Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency Service Assistant Chief Philip Thorburn said the crane evacuation could last 24 hours or so. (Celina Aalders/CBC)
Halifax Regional Police said people should avoid the area of Dutch Village Road, Titus Street, Main Avenue, McFatridge Road, Alma Crescent, Andrew Street, Deal Street and Percy Street areas.
As of 7:30 p.m., the Halifax municipality said on its website the scene had been secured and is considered safe. It said a repair plan is being developed with the crane company.
Firefighters, police and the Department of Labour will stay at the site overnight to monitor the situation.
About 100 people were evacuated as a precaution. Michael Nwamo and his cat, Garfield, were among the evacuees.
While he’s not looking forward to being out of his home for around 24 hours, Nwamo said he understands why.
“We do want to be safe but it’s only human to not want to be disturbed — especially after a long day at work. I’ve been up since 7 a.m. So this is me very tired. I was hoping to get a shower. I haven’t even had lunch,” Nwamo said.
“Garfield is my priority right now because he is stressed.”
Michael Nwamo and his cat, Garfield, were evacuated from their home on Thursday because of the unstable crane. (Celina Aalders/CBC)
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