Missoula First Responders Conduct HazMat Training at Glacier Ice Rink

The simulated exercise prepared emergency crews for a potential ammonia leak at the local ice rink.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:33pm

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting depicting a frozen ice rink surrounded by heavy fog, conveying the overwhelming scale of natural elements and the need for emergency preparedness.First responders train for hazardous materials emergencies, even in the most unexpected of settings.Missoula Today

First responders in Missoula, Montana conducted a hazardous materials training exercise at the Glacier Ice Rink on Thursday. The simulation involved a mock ammonia leak, and crews responded in full protective gear to practice their emergency procedures. The training was part of the Missoula Regional Response Team's ongoing preparedness efforts for potential hazardous materials incidents across Western Montana.

Why it matters

Hazardous materials incidents can pose serious threats to public safety, so regular training is crucial for first responders to maintain a high level of readiness. The Glacier Ice Rink was chosen as the site due to its status as a 'high-risk area' that could require a specialized HazMat response.

The details

During the four-hour training session, first responders were briefed on the simulated ammonia leak before entering the ice rink facility in full hazardous materials protective suits. After the initial response, crews also practiced decontamination procedures. The Missoula Regional Response Team conducts these types of monthly trainings at various locations across Western Montana to ensure preparedness for a range of potential emergencies.

  • The training exercise took place on Thursday, April 16, 2026 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The players

Missoula Regional Response Team

A team of first responders from the city and rural fire departments in Missoula, Montana that is responsible for hazardous materials incidents across Western Montana.

Jeff Kroll

The manager of the Missoula Regional HazMat Team, who oversaw the training exercise at the Glacier Ice Rink.

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What they’re saying

“Today we're doing a training exercise simulating that the Glacier Ice Rink had an ammonia leak and what our response would look like, how we would deal with that.”

— Jeff Kroll, Manager, Missoula Regional HazMat Team

What’s next

The Missoula Regional Response Team will continue to conduct monthly training exercises at various high-risk locations across Western Montana to maintain a state of preparedness for potential hazardous materials incidents.

The takeaway

This training exercise highlights the importance of regular, proactive preparation by first responders to ensure they are equipped to safely and effectively handle hazardous materials emergencies that could threaten public safety. The Missoula Regional Response Team's commitment to ongoing training across the region demonstrates their dedication to protecting their community.