For the second time in the span of two months, a CP freight transporting crude oil has derailed and ignited just west of the village of Guernsey, SK. The emergency has triggered a response from Transport Canada in the form of a Ministerial Order that will strictly govern the speed of what it calls “key trains.”

According to CP Rail, the Order, effective midnight on Friday, February 7, restricts speeds for all trains carrying 20 or more cars containing dangerous goods. The release states that “in metropolitan areas, these trains will be limited to 20 mph. Outside these areas, trains will be limited to 25 mph.”

“CP fully supports this action and it has been implemented effective immediately,” said Keith Creel, CP President and CEO. “Until we better understand the facts relating to today’s incident, it is prudent to operate with an abundance of caution. We equally share Minister Garneau’s concerns, and remain committed to safe operations, as we always have been.

At press time, residents of Guernsey have been evacuated. Many have gathered in nearby Lanigan, SK. 

Fire responders from Humboldt and Lanigan remain on-site along with CP response teams attempting to contain the fire. 

The release states that CP remains in contact with local regulators and local officials to keep them informed as the situation progresses. CP has launched an investigation. 

Officials from CP were contacted for further comment. At this point, there has been no response.