A large emergency response was triggered at Evergreen Park School in Moncton after a white powder was found in a package delivered to the school. The good news: the substance was later confirmed to be harmless baking soda.

Staff Member Exposed and Reports Breathing Difficulties

The incident began just after 9 a.m. when a staff member reported difficulty breathing after coming in contact with a white powder inside a parcel. Evergreen Park School serves children from kindergarten through Grade 5.

Fire Chief Conrad Landry said, “A staff member had some trouble breathing, so we treated the situation seriously and called all necessary emergency services.”

Emergency Response Mobilized Quickly

Moncton firefighters, Codiac Regional RCMP officers, and Ambulance NB responded to the scene immediately. The school was put under "hold and secure" procedures, which meant no one could enter or leave the building while authorities investigated the substance.

The firefighters’ union also asked residents to stay away from the area through a Facebook post, ensuring the emergency response teams could work efficiently.

Powder Came from the Ordered Package

Stephanie Patterson, spokesperson for the Anglophone East School District, confirmed that the white powder was inside a box containing a diaper disposal bucket the school had ordered.

Police are investigating whether the powder—baking soda—was intentionally placed in the package to maintain freshness, which is sometimes done with certain packaged goods.

Students and Staff Kept Safe

Ten people were exposed to the powder and were immediately isolated in a separate room as a precaution. Other students and staff remained in their classrooms, following strict safety procedures.

The district superintendent kept parents informed throughout the morning, reassuring them that the situation was under control.

Hazardous Materials Team Confirms Harmless Substance

Fire Chief Landry said the department’s hazardous materials team tested the powder and confirmed it was simply baking soda. “For us, baking soda is good news and we’re going back home,” he added.

The staff member who experienced breathing issues felt better after windows were opened to allow fresh air into the room.

School Returns to Normal

By later in the day, the Anglophone East School District lifted the "hold and secure" order, allowing classes to resume as normal. Parents were informed that all students and staff were safe.

The incident serves as a reminder of how schools and emergency services quickly respond to potential hazards, even when the threat turns out to be minor.