A recent classroom incident at Heritage High School caused a scare among students and staff when smoke-like fog appeared during class. Fears of a fire led to evacuations and investigations. After all the inspecting was done, staff confirmed that the cause was a malfunctioning air conditioning.
Students describe the mix of emotions during the event. One student, Sierra Byers, admitted to feeling scared and wanting to go home when smoke appeared during the class. Others like Quailyn Thurman recalled joking about the situation and even feeling relieved to avoid classwork. Averi Russell and Madison Thompson both reported confusion and worry when the lights flickered and smoke spread in the classroom. With Thompson noting she had seen similar problems before.
Staff quickly investigated the problem, Officer Kevin and Dr. Jason Scott determined that the apparent smoke was actually harmless vapor created by leaking compressors. The lack of odor confirmed the issue was not fire related.
Mrs. Mary Pursley stated at first the classroom assumed it was thunder, but eventually those thoughts subsided when smoke appeared. Pursley also stated, “ Many of my students were calm, some even made jokes.” The fire department was called as a precaution. They used fans to clear the rooms and confirm there was no heat, fire, or danger to students. Classes were able to resume once the areas were ventilated. The incidents caused confusion and fear. In conclusion, the AC unit did not blow up as many students have quoted and it was just malfunctioning with the air conditioning. What appeared to be smoke was ultimately nothing more than a harmless fog.
