Two schools in Chetwynd, British Columbia, were placed under a safety status on February 17, 2026, as a precaution. Chetwynd Secondary School and Windrem Elementary School entered what is known as a “secure and hold” while the Royal Canadian Mounted Police worked with school staff.
According to School District 59, the safety measure was lifted at 1:45 p.m. later that day. During this time, schools keep their doors locked and do not allow anyone to enter or leave, though regular classes continue inside the building.
This safety alert follows a tragedy at a school in Tumbler Ridge on February 10, 2026, that resulted in nine deaths. Because of that recent event, the district and local police are acting with extra care to ensure student safety across the region.
On February 18, 2026, the school board for School District 59 postponed its regular public meeting. The district also cancelled more than 25 school bus routes in the Dawson Creek area on Wednesday due to freezing rain and icy roads.
