EMS closed today due to air quality issues | News, sports, work

ELKINS — Officials announced that Elkins High School will be closed today due to air quality issues that some parents say made many EMS students sick Thursday.

At approximately 8:15 p.m. Thursday, Randolph County Schools posted the following on social media:

“Subject: Notice of Closing of Elkins High School on Friday, October 25, 2024

“Dear Parents and Guardians,

“Due to water and air quality issues, Randolph County Schools will close Elkins Middle School tomorrow, Friday, October 25, 2024. We are working closely with local officials to address these issues and ensure all systems are operating safely.

“Please be assured that Elkins High School was subjected to two separate inspections and no excessive levels of carbon monoxide were detected. We will continue to work with the State Fire Marshal, local fire department, emergency management and air quality experts to ensure a safe environment for our students.

“Thank you for your understanding and support as we prioritize the safety of our school community.

“Sincerely, Randolph County Schools.”

The school authorities confirmed this “fumes” With “bucket of non-toxic glue” caused a foul odor at Elkins Middle School on Thursday that some parents blame for making their children sick.

On Thursday afternoon, Inter-Mountain officials received calls and text messages from residents about EMS students falling ill and being treated at Davis Medical Center.

Around 4 p.m., a parent of two EMS students posted this on social media “Now we’re in the ER and they’re staying overnight… they’ve had their blood taken and they’ve been exposed to carbon monoxide… there’s a level in their body that now they have to stay overnight… if your child was in middle school today, I don’t know what to tell you, but don’t hesitate to take your kids to the ER.”

Later, another EMS parent posted about her daughter “The level of carboxyhemoglobin is 4.6, and it should be 0 – 1.5. He is currently receiving oxygen! I highly encourage you to take your child to the ER to be checked out!”

Carboxyhemoglobin is a molecule formed when carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells.

School officials said glue was used Thursday afternoon “roofers” in EMS.

At 4:55 p.m., Dr. Shawn Dilly, superintendent of Randolph County Schools, posted the following statement on social media:

“Update for EMS families:

“We want to address recent concerns about carbon monoxide at Elkins High School. We ensure that the school is equipped with carbon monoxide detectors throughout the HVAC system, ensuring continuous safety monitoring.

“As a precaution, the fire brigade and gas company conducted a thorough inspection of the building and we are pleased to report that no elevated levels of carbon monoxide were detected. The safety and well-being of our students and staff remains our highest priority.

“We encourage families to seek medical attention if their children experience any symptoms. Additionally, as an added safety measure, we recommend that you have your home checked for elevated levels.

“Thank you for your continued support and attention to this matter.

“Sincerely, Randolph County Schools.”

Previously at 16:29 Dilly wrote:

“Elkins Middle School Families:

“We want to inform you about an incident involving our roofing contractors that occurred today at Elkins High School. A bucket of non-toxic glue was placed near the fresh air intake, which created fumes that caused an unpleasant odor in part of the school.

“To quickly address the situation, we closed the intake, opened windows and doors to provide ventilation, and relocated some students to minimize the impact. Please be assured that the safety and well-being of our students and staff is always our highest priority, which is why we have taken these steps to ensure a safe environment.

“Thank you for your understanding and patience during our roofing project. We will remain vigilant to prevent similar issues in the future. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school office.

“Sincerely yours, Dr. Shawn Dilly, Superintendent.”