Edenvale learners evacuated after smoke scare during exam session
An exam session at a Kempton Park school was briefly disrupted after the smell of smoke prompted a swift evacuation of learners.
Learners at Destiny Independent School in Kempton Park were briefly interrupted during their exam session on June 22 after the smell of smoke raised concerns of a potential fire.
Deputy principal Michelle Smith explained that the smell of smoke was first detected coming from the upper section of the exam hall.
The smoke alerted invigilators and the principal, who immediately instructed learners to stop writing, leave their belongings and evacuate the hall.
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The school’s electricity was switched off while staff waited for emergency services and an electrician.
Smith said the school was praised by firefighters for preventing the situation from escalating into an actual fire. It was later determined that the smoke was caused by an electrical fault in a light fitting, which burnt out and produced smoke.
“Although it was a scary moment, the biggest thing that stood out was how the evacuation drills taught to the learners were followed through. It’s important for evacuation drills to happen once every term because with children, if there isn’t repetition, they will never remember it,” Smith said.
She added that during the upcoming holidays, all old lights on the school premises will be replaced to prevent similar incidents.
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Invigilator Nhlanhla Ndlovu highlighted how teamwork contributed to the school’s swift response and ensured learners’ safety.
“Our teamwork as staff really helped because we were able to remain calm and evacuate learners with no one getting hurt in the process,” Ndlovu said.
Destiny Independent School has encouraged the community to remain calm and continue practising evacuation drills in case of similar emergencies.
