A security emergency known as a Code Silver was declared on Thursday, January 15, 2026, leading to a lockdown at three separate healthcare facilities on Prince Edward Island. The incident prompted an immediate security protocol activation to ensure the safety of patients and staff.
Details of the Lockdown and Response
The lockdown was implemented at Kings County Memorial Hospital in Montague and two other, unspecified P.E.I. health sites. A Code Silver is a standardized emergency code used in many Canadian healthcare settings to indicate a person with a weapon or a hostage situation. The declaration was reported at 11:23 AM EST.
Authorities and hospital security teams responded swiftly to the threat. While specific details about the nature of the threat or any potential suspects have not been immediately released, the primary focus was on securing the premises. The lockdown procedure restricts movement in and out of the buildings, with staff following established safety protocols to protect everyone inside.
Impact on Patients and Services
The lockdown inevitably caused disruptions to normal operations at the affected sites. Non-urgent appointments and visits were likely postponed or redirected. Emergency services, however, were maintained, with protocols in place to handle critical cases even during the lockdown period.
Communication from the health authorities was directed to the public, advising them to avoid the areas around the locked-down facilities unless seeking emergency care. Families with loved ones in the hospitals were advised to wait for official updates.
Context and Conclusion
This incident highlights the ongoing need for robust security measures in public institutions, especially healthcare settings where vulnerable individuals are present. The use of standardized codes like Code Silver allows for a rapid and coordinated response from staff and emergency services.
As of the initial report, the situation was ongoing. The lockdown remained in effect while security personnel and law enforcement assessed and managed the threat. The resolution of the Code Silver and the full resumption of normal activities at Kings County Memorial Hospital and the other two sites were pending further updates from officials.
