Evansville School Evacuated After Carbon Monoxide Alarm

One Evansville, Indiana, elementary school was evacuated this morning after a carbon monoxide alarm sounded inside the building.

Alarm Prompts Swift Evacuation of Scott Elementary

According to the Vanderburgh County Fire Department, crews were dispatched on September 26, 2025, to Scott Elementary School just after 10 am. A second alarm from a pull station was also reported shortly after the initial call. Firefighters from Stations 1 and 3 arrived within minutes to find the school already in the process of a calm, orderly evacuation of both students and staff.

Fire Crews Detect High CO Levels in Cafeteria

Responders, along with the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, determined both alarms were connected to the same incident. High levels of carbon monoxide were detected in the kitchen and cafeteria area, though no obvious source of the gas was found. CenterPoint Energy technicians were called to the scene to assist with the investigation.

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No Injuries Reported as Officials Investigate Source

Fire crews secured utilities and ventilated the building until air quality readings returned to safe levels. No injuries or illnesses were reported. The cause of the elevated carbon monoxide remains under investigation pending a full maintenance review over the weekend.

Centerpoint Gas was requested to scene and high carbon monoxide (CO) readings were recorded in the kitchen/cafeteria area only, no obvious leaks were found and the cause was ruled undetermined pending additional investigation. Utilities were secured and turned over to Centerpoint technicians. Building was ventilated and all air quality readings returned to normal levels.

Fire Department Praises Staff and Students for Quick Response

The Vanderburgh County Fire Department praised Scott Elementary’s staff and students for handling the emergency with professionalism and composure.

Officials remind the public that carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas and encourage homeowners and businesses to ensure detectors are properly installed and maintained.

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Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals

Source: Carbon Monoxide Forces Evacuation at Scott Elementary