By Aaron Schulze

Flash Fire

Two patients airlifted to hospital after propane buildup causes explosion in Barriere

Jan 8, 2026 | 6:16 AM

BARRIERE, B.C. — Two people were airlifted to Royal Inland Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after an explosion in Barriere. 

Barriere RCMP responded to a property in the district on Tuesday (Jan. 6) where it appears two individuals were opening a sealed sea can containing a propane tank when a buildup of leaking propane gas ignited upon opening. It resulted in a flash fire. 

In a news release issued Wednesday, Barriere RCMP say officers helped paramedics in creating a landing zone for an air ambulance. 

RCMP say there was no criminality behind the explosion, but they remind residents to ensure propane tanks and other flammable materials are stored and used in well-ventilated areas.