Okotoks RCMP and Fire & Rescue personnel were among those to respond to an incident involving bear spray at Westmount School today (May 13).

According to a release sent out by the Foothills School Division (FSD), "bear spray was brought into the school and discharged in the presence of students," though they have not said who set it off.

Along with police and fire personnel, EMTs responded and tended to those affected by the incident.

Others who were nearby but unaffected were moved to a safe location, and grade 9 students writing a PAT in a nearby room were offered to move to a ventilated room.

The space was cleared of the spray, and surfaces are being cleaned.

According to FSD, Okotoks RCMP is investigating and conducting interviews.

Their release reiterated their emphasis on safety.

"Foothills School Division prioritizes the safety of our learning community. As with any incident, we will be reviewing administrative procedures to ensure that an incident of this nature may be prevented in future. We ask for you to have a conversation with your child about the impact of bringing weapons, such as bear spray, to school as this violates our Code of Conduct (AP 350) as well as the Education Act."

FSD isn't releasing any more information to protect the privacy of those involved.