QUICK SUMMARY
Spokane Fire Department's Hazardous Materials Team contained an ammonia leak at Riverfront Park early Saturday morning. The leak, detected late Friday night, prompted immediate safety measures, including ventilation and specialized monitoring. The park has since resumed normal operations.
Spokane Fire Department's Hazardous Materials Team responded to an ammonia leak at Riverfront Park around 10:22 p.m. on May 2, 2025. Ammonia is utilized in the refrigeration process for the park's ice ribbon, which operates from November to February. Fire crews detected the leak near the mechanical room and confirmed its presence through monitoring equipment. They ventilated the area to ensure safety for a specialized contractor who was called in to manage the situation. By 6:30 a.m. Saturday, the ammonia hazard was fully contained, allowing operations to resume. Riverfront Park and nearby streets have since reopened, ensuring public access. The swift action by emergency services prevented potential health risks to park visitors. This incident underscores the importance of rapid response in hazardous material situations.