-Students evacuated after pipe leak causes smoke in IRC
The fire department was dispatched to Gwathmey Dorm at the International Residence College Sunday at 10:12 a.m. after a steam pipe leak in the laundry room filled the room and a nearby stairwell with steam. The steam appeared at first to be smoke caused by a fire.
Upon arrival, firefighters discovered a pink liquid leaking from the pipe and called in the Environmental Health and Safety Committee to judge whether it was hazardous.
The area was closed off until EHS confirmed that the substance was antifreeze. Antifreeze is not hazardous and is present in the University pipe system in order to prevent the water in underground pipes from freezing.
"Anytime you have an unknown substance you exercise caution," Battalion Chief David Hartman said.
Students were evacuated from the building and not allowed to return inside until the fire department left at 12:15.
Residents stood outdoors, some in towels or pajamas, until they were moved into a nearby dorm by resident staff. One student fractured her arm when she slipped on ice exiting the building. She was released from the emergency room yesterday.
- Complied by Riley
McDonald
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