MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
McPHERSON — Students at McPherson High School were safely evacuated Tuesday afternoon after smoke was reported in the school’s wood shop area.
The McPherson Fire Department, McPherson Police Department, and McPherson EMS were dispatched shortly before 3 p.m. to investigate what was initially believed to be a possible electrical fire.
Responding crews directed their attention to the roundhouse wood shop, where students had already been evacuated as a precaution. Officials confirmed all students were safely released for the day once the incident was reported.
Upon investigation, firefighters determined that an electrical circuit embedded in the floor had shorted, causing a small amount of smoke. The issue was contained by isolating the circuit through its breaker. No flames were reported, and the situation was quickly brought under control.
USD 418 maintenance personnel assisted with the investigation and remained on scene after emergency crews cleared.
No injuries were reported, and officials say classes are expected to continue as normal once repairs are completed.