Stinky but not dangerous: Calgary fire urges residents to consider outdoor odours before calling 911

It was determined that the smell was created by runoff from the airport.

As stormwater runoff ponds at Calgary’s airport continue to release pungent odours into the air, the city’s fire department is asking area residents to think carefully about where the stink might be coming from before calling 911.

Last month, the Calgary Fire Department received a spike in emergency calls regarding what was believed to be gas leaks in the city’s northeast.

The odour was linked to stormwater runoff ponds at Calgary International Airport used to collect de-icing compounds that let off a sulphur-like aroma.

The fire department says it continues to see a high volume of calls related to the stench —including 15 calls about the stink on Monday.

“This can drain fire service resources in those areas, causing concerns about our ability to provide consistent response times for other calls,” said Fire Chief Steve Dongworth in a news release.

Though unpleasant, the odour — which can smell like natural gas or propane — is not believed to be dangerous, the fire department said.

The fire department says it is encouraging those living near the airport to consider the nearby source of outdoor odours before calling 911.

It added residents are still advised to call in with concerns about natural gas or propane leaks — especially if they are indoors or at a commercial business.