Chlorine Leak Evacuates High School

Earlier today, Walkersville High School students and staff evacuated the high school due to a chlorine leak and spill in the mechanical closet adjacent to the pool.

Upon immediate detection of the leak, the administration evacuated the building
and contacted the authorities.  Within minutes, emergency personnel arrived on site and worked collaboratively with school officials. 

The area of contamination was contained and measures were taken immediately to shut down all HVAC systems and all air flow throughout the building. 

After approximately 20 minutes the administration in collaboration with Hazmat Officials determined the building environment was safe for return. 

Staff in proximity of the contaminated area did undergo observation and questioning as a safety precaution.  

Students were not in direct proximity of the leak.  Students in near proximity such as the weight room, gymnasium, locker rooms and pool deck were observed by emergency personnel.  No students were transported for exposure. 

We have encouraged students who were observed to let a school official or a parent know if they are not feeling well moving forward. 

At this time, the school is operating as usual and classes are back in session for the remainder of the day.  The pool facilities are still not accessible.   

Frederick County Public Schools contracted an official Hazmat clean-up crew to come on sight
to clean-up the leak and spill.  

School officials anticipate the pool and pool area being approved for use by tomorrow morning.

Tracey K. Kibler, principal, wrote, “I personally want to thank all the first responders and emergency personnel on the scene. Each crew member was personable, helpful and attentive to our school and students.  They established stellar communication with our administrative staff for effective management and resolution so students could return to the building.  I would equally like to thank FCPS Communications and FCPS Safety & Security departments as well the manager of Environmental Health and Safety for their assistance and support. 

Finally I want to thank our students and staff for their cooperation and patience.  Everyone was compliant and calm.  Students and teachers immediately evacuated to their assigned locations and everyone was accounted for within minutes of the directive
to evacuate.  Situations such as this one are more easily resolved when everyone communicates and works as a team.  I am extremely proud of our response to the incident and the efforts of all who were involved.”