The City of Swift Current revealed that the InnovationPlex had an ammonia leak, and has been in a temporary fix for almost half a month.

The leak began on Feb. 24, 2024. The good news it was only a small readily contained leak.

Presented as an issue scheduled to be repaired in the latest CAO report at yesterday's Governance and Priorities meeting, the ammonia leak was highlighted by Swift Current city councillor, Ryan Switzer.

"I recall hearing a few years ago something like that was fatal in another facility in British Columbia," noted Switzer. "We're obviously giving [this issue] the respect and attention it deserves."

Nicole Spenst, general manager of community services for the City of Swift Current, complimented the InnovationPlex staff for their quick response to the issue. She applauded their ability to secure the leak and mitigate its impact on the daily operations of the facility. 

"There is a fix at the current point in time," said Spence. "The proper fix will be put into place when they close down at the end of the season."

The Bronco's last home game is Mar. 22, where they will host the Calgary Hitmen. The regular season closes out the following day in Calgary, in a re-match at the Saddledome. If the home team can stay alive during its playoff run, repairs could still be quite a ways away.

Ammonia can be dangerous, in that high levels of exposure can cause burns, lung damage, and other irritations. A high enough dose can severely injure, incapacitate, and even kill a person. 

The City of Swift Current did not disclose the exact location of the leak, and neither did it offer a total price on repair costs. To date, the leak has not caused any downtime at the rink.