Malfunctioning heater at Tahoe Valley Elementary draws response from South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue responded to a fire alarm at Tahoe Valley Elementary school Tuesday morning. A Lake Tahoe Unified School District (LTUSD) maintenance worker was attempting to repair a heater outside a 4th grade portable classroom. According to Tahoe Valley Principal Christina Grubbs, the heater malfunctioned, causing smoke inside the unit which is outdoors. She said smoke was drawn into the classroom through the air exchange.

"The fire alarm was triggered and we evacuated the school per our safety protocols," said Grubbs in an email to families. Evacuation drills had just been practiced on Monday. "The fire department came to verify the area, the classroom, and the fire alarm system for the school, and concluded there was no fire, only smoke. They gave the all-clear and school was delayed only 20 minutes."

Students in that 4th grade portable were relocated to the empty portable next door so their learning could continue for the day. Students will stay in that room for school until the environment is smoke free.

"Tahoe Valley would like to thank the Lake Tahoe Fire Department for their quick response, thorough evaluation and clearance, and to the students and staff for knowing exactly what to do during an emergency," said Grubbs. "This shows that our safety procedures work quickly, efficiently, and thoroughly."