SOUTH MOUNTAIN SCHOOL SMOKE SPARKS EVACUATION

From South Mountain School to parents Thursday:

Dear South Mountain Community,

Just after dismissal today, the fire alarm was triggered by smoke on a lower floor. Everyone still in the school evacuated the building immediately, and waited safely outside. 

Only staff and students in after school activities (after care, beyond the bell, play practice, Achieve tutoring, etc.) were affected.
The fire department assessed the situation, identified the source of the smoke as a compressor in an area near the custodian’s office, and shut off power to that compressor. There was no fire, only smoke. 

The smoke affected the area near the custodian’s office, and some smoke also entered the auditorium through the HVAC system. The fire department used fans to clear the smoke. Once the smoke dissipated, they re-set the fire alarm and we were allowed back in the building. 

As you know, the safety of our students, staff and families is always our top priority. We are grateful to the South Orange Fire Department for their quick response and assistance.

Alyna Jacobs, Principal