LOYAL. LOCAL. COMPLETE.
CHRISMAN—Students, teachers and staff were forced to evacuate Chrisman High School on Tuesday, Dec. 17 after a fire reportedly broke out in the building’s boiler room. According to Chrisman Fire District Fire Chief Mike Marvin, the fire was contained shortly after 10 a.m. and building occupants were safely out of harm’s way.
“There’s no danger to the students at this time,” Marvin told a Prairie Press reporter.
Later in the afternoon, Chrisman High School principal Nicole Cox told a Prairie Press reporter the building was “promptly and safely evacuated.”
“Earlier today, a fire occurred in the electrical panel within the boiler room of the junior high school,” she said. “Staff immediately implemented established evacuation protocols, ensuring the safety of all students and personnel … everyone was accounted for without incident.”
Per Cox, the local fire department responded quickly and conducted an inspection, confirming the building was clear and safe for students and staff to re-enter.
“The fire was successfully contained to the boiler room, preventing further damage to other areas of the school,” Cox said. “We commend our staff and students for their calm and orderly response during the evacuation and thank the fire department for their swift and effective action. We would also like to thank parents and guardians for working with the school as we navigated this situation.”
By 1 p.m., Ameren, Solar Shift and Jenness Electric had each visited the school and inspected the building’s electrical service, determining it as safe and restoring services.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
This is an evolving story. The Prairie Press will share any additional information as it becomes available.
Story updated Dec. 17, 1:41 p.m.