Calgary Fire Department evacuates over 200 people from downtown building during noon hour

Shortly after 12  p.m. today, Calgary fire crews were called to a four story building at the 500 block of 1^st Street S.E. for reports of noxious fumes. Upon arrival, firefighters detected the smell of diesel on the first two floors of the building and evacuated over  200 people. Several occupants did complain of feeling unwell as a result of the fumes. Firefighters went floor to floor to monitor air quality and carbon monoxide levels. Upon investigation, fire crews discovered the source of the fumes to be a back-up generator which was being tested in a neighbouring building.  Calgary Fire Department Hazardous Materials firefighters have continued to monitor the air on every level and found carbon monoxide levels to be zero. Occupants are expected to be allowed back into the building within the hour. No injuries were reported as a result of this incident.

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