Gas Leak Prompts Brief Evacuation at Pine Forest High School

Fayetteville, NC - Pine Forest High School experienced a brief disruption this morning after a reported gas leak in a laboratory classroom. At approximately 9:41 AM, both the Fayetteville Fire Department and the Westarea Fire Department were dispatched to the school, in response to the incident.

According to school officials, the smell of gas was detected within a laboratory classroom. Demonstrating swift action and prioritizing student safety, school personnel immediately identified the potential hazard, successfully isolated the gas supply to the affected room, and initiated a precautionary evacuation of the entire school.

The Fayetteville Fire Department Hazardous Materials (HazMat) team promptly arrived on the scene. Equipped with specialized air monitoring equipment, the HazMat team conducted thorough assessments within the affected classroom and throughout the school building. These measures were taken to ensure that no lingering danger or elevated levels of gas were present, guaranteeing the safety of the students and staff.

Following the comprehensive air quality checks and confirmation that the building was safe for re-entry, school officials received the all-clear. Students and staff were then permitted to return to the building, and normal school operations resumed.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols and the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between school officials and emergency responders in ensuring a safe learning environment. As of midday, all activities at Pine Forest High School have returned to their regular schedule.