CONTRIBUTED ARTICLE

Salisbury Township School District Superintendent Lynn Fuini-Hetten said a teacher at Salisbury High School reported a possible chemical spill in the chemical storage room adjacent to his classroom Nov. 10.

Fuini-Hetten said custodial staff were immediately dispatched to investigate and Director of Facilities, Safety and Security Bill Brackett responded on-site. Because the source of the spill could not be immediately located, emergency services were notified out of an abundance of caution.

“Salisbury Township Police Department, Eastern Salisbury Fire Department and the Lehigh County Special Operations Team responded promptly. St. Luke’s EMS and Allentown EMS were also on scene to assist, if needed.

“As a precaution, students and staff were safely evacuated to the stadium, where all students were accounted for before being dismissed or bused home,” Fuini-Hetten said.

“After investigating, emergency personnel identified the substance as butanol, a scientific solvent. The leak was contained within a hazardous material storage cabinet, which functioned as designed and prevented further exposure. The source of the leak was determined to be a broken container inside the cabinet.

“The spill was isolated, contained and cleaned up by qualified responders. The area was thoroughly inspected by emergency services and determined to be safe for reentry.

“I am extremely grateful to our staff, students and first responders for their quick and calm actions,” Fuini-Hetten said. “Safety is always our top priority, and the protocols in place worked exactly as intended.”

Principal Heather Morningstar said, “I am proud of how our students and staff responded today during the chemical spill evaluation. Their calm cooperation and adherence to safety procedures ensured a smooth and secure outcome for everyone.”

The school has been cleared for normal operations and is safe to reoccupy immediately.