Oakland Elementary School evacuates following HVAC unit leak

SMITHS GROVE, Ky. – Oakland Elementary School is being evacuated due to a reported smell of gas, police say.

Smiths Grove police chief Jason Franks confirmed units are at the scene, where several people have complained of nausea.

Franks says students and staff are being moved to Oakland Baptist Church due to the strong odor of gas.

Local emergency management, Gott Volunteer Fire Department and EMS is also responding to the scene.

Warren County Public Schools has confirmed the evacuation was out of an abundance of caution. The district shared the following statement regarding the incident:

“Today, the Warren County Public Schools (WCPS) district and school officials were notified about the potential smell of gas inside Oakland Elementary School. Our maintenance department and director of school safety, deputy Steve Chappell, responded immediately. Our maintenance department learned exhaust fumes from an HVAC unit on the roof tripped the unit’s internal safety system, a protective feature by design, and the fumes blew inside the building, causing the smell.

“Atmos Energy, Bowling Green Fire Department and WCPS Maintenance crews have cleared the building of all exhaust fumes and deemed the building safe for regular use. As confirmed by professionals with Atmos Energy, there was no gas leak at any time during the incident. As a result, school will resume tomorrow.

“During the incident and out of an abundance of caution, the teachers and students were evacuated to Oakland Baptist Church. District and school officials contacted the parents/guardians of any students who experienced symptoms, which have been mild thus far. At this time, approximately 98 students and staff have experienced mild symptoms. All those experiencing symptoms have been evaluated by medical personnel on-site.”