by Jackie Pollack and Julia Moss
Around 8:05 this morning, a small electrical fire started in a guidance office in the main office of high school, reportedly due to the space heater and the wiring of an extension cord. The fire alarm went off and the building was evacuated.
Rich Pittore and our custodial staff extinguished the fire quickly after it started. Fire chiefs from Irvington, Tarrytown and Greenburgh arrived at the scene, along with three fire engines and a Con Ed Emergency response truck. Police and ambulances also arrived as a precaution. The Irvington fire department examined the scene and pronounced there were no longer any hazards. The school resumed normal scheduling midway through first period.
“Thanks to the quick actions of Rich Pittore and our custodians, the fire was quickly extinguished,” said an emailed statement from principals David Sottile and David Cohen. “The IPD and IFD assisted in securing the situation and ensuring our ability to return to classes safely.”
Dr. Kris Harrison followed up an email updating the community with a message regarding electrical safety.
“The fire resulted from an extension cord that was not properly UL rated and shorted-out,” wrote Dr. Harrison.
“Additionally, it is not permissible to bring in appliances for use in classrooms or offices. If such an item is needed, a request must be made to your principal or director who will work with our Facilities Department to evaluate the request. These items can also place an improper electrical load on an outlet or power strip and pose a safety risk. Such items include microwaves, coffee machines, refrigerators, space heaters, air conditioners, plug in air fresheners, etc.”
