Thirty-six and counting, that is the number of learners who struggled to breathe following a gas leak in the Wentworth area this morning (March 12) which led to learners from Umbilo Secondary School being evacuated.

Also read: Secondary school evacuated over suspected gas leak in Wentworth

Claudine Bernon, who heads the School Governing Body (SGB) at Umbilo Secondary School, said that a number of learners and teachers had severe breathing difficulties and experienced respiratory distress since the morning. According to Bernon, initial reports confirm that a gaseous substance infiltrated the school premises due to environmental impact.

“Following the onset of symptoms, emergency services were called to the school, and subsequently, the school was evacuated to ensure the safety of all learners and staff. Initially between six and eight patients required further medical attention and were transported to local medical facilities, including Wentworth Hospital, for stabilisation,” she said.

Concerns for learners’ safety

Bernon voiced her worry about the area’s environmental safety.

“It is completely unacceptable that our students are forced to choose between their education and their fundamental right to breathe clean air,” she said.

A reliable source confirmed to the SUN that more than 36 learners were treated due to the incident. The source also confirmed that a number of learners are reportedly still going to get checked up.

Garrith Jamieson, the spokesperson for ALS Paramedics, shared that when he arrived at the scene, the smell was still present.

“Upon arrival, paramedics found multiple learners experiencing respiratory distress. One learner is believed to have had some sort of seizure,” said Jamieson.

Accountability

Bernon said while they are grateful for the emergency intervention, they demand accountability from the industries surrounding the school. “Our learners deserve a safe learning environment free from toxic exposure,” she said.

Helping hands

The SGB expressed its gratitude to the emergency services and organisations, like the eThekwini Fire Department, ALS Paramedics, Emergency Medical Rescue Services, the SAPS, Ward 68 councillor Aubrey Snyman, the South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (SDCEA) and the medical team at Wentworth Hospital, for their fast assistance.

Bernon urged the public to rely strictly on official updates from school management as investigations take place.

“We request that you do not listen to or spread unconfirmed reports or ‘fake news’ currently circulating within the community, as these often contain inaccurate information that can cause unnecessary panic,” she said.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.