Arroyo Grande High School experienced a gas leak on Thursday morning, December 4, 2025, leading to a partial evacuation of the campus. The incident resulted in several students and staff members reporting symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, prompting emergency response and medical evaluations.
Firefighters from the Five Cities Fire Authority quickly responded to the scene. Their arrival confirmed the presence of individuals with symptoms, highlighting the need for immediate action and further medical assessment.
Key Takeaways
- Gas leak reported at Arroyo Grande High School on December 4, 2025.
- Seven individuals, including students and staff, showed symptoms.
- Four students and two staff members transported for medical evaluation.
- Leak source in Building 900 identified and repaired.
- Affected area closed for the remainder of the day.
Emergency Response and Initial Findings
The Five Cities Fire Authority received the initial report of a gas leak at 10:16 a.m. The leak was located within Building 900 on the school campus. Fire Chief Scott Hallett confirmed the immediate dispatch of crews to the site.
Upon arrival, emergency responders found seven individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with carbon monoxide exposure. These individuals included both students and staff members. The conditions were not initially described as severe, but responders began evaluating all affected patients.
Incident Snapshot
- Date: December 4, 2025
- Time of Report: 10:16 a.m.
- Location: Building 900, Arroyo Grande High School
- Affected: 7 students and staff
Medical Transport for Precaution
As the situation developed, six individuals required further medical attention. According to Lucia Mar Unified School District spokesperson Amy Jacobs, four students and two staff members were transported to a medical facility. This decision was made "in an abundance of caution" to ensure their well-being.
The rapid response from both school staff and emergency services helped manage the immediate health concerns. School protocols for evacuation were activated promptly, moving students and staff away from the affected area.
Evacuation and Repair Efforts
When the gas leak was first discovered, school personnel acted quickly. Students and staff in the immediate vicinity of Building 900 evacuated several classrooms. This swift action helped prevent more widespread exposure.
Emergency teams worked to identify the source of the leak. By 11:58 a.m., the source was pinpointed and repairs were completed. This quick resolution was crucial in minimizing the disruption and ensuring safety.
"Students and staff immediately evacuated several classrooms in the isolated area," Amy Jacobs stated, emphasizing the school's quick response to the incident.
Understanding Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by the incomplete burning of carbon-containing fuels. It can be deadly because it prevents oxygen from reaching the body's organs. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion.
Campus Safety and Future Plans
Following the repair, the Five Cities Fire Authority and the Gas Company thoroughly inspected the affected classroom area. They officially cleared the space, confirming it was safe from further gas leaks.
Despite the all-clear, Building 900 remained closed for the remainder of the day. Students who normally attended classes in that building were relocated to alternative classrooms. This ensured a safe learning environment for everyone while allowing for any lingering concerns to be addressed.
District's Commitment to Safety
The Lucia Mar Unified School District reiterated its commitment to student and staff safety. The incident served as a reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness and effective communication during critical events.
School officials will likely review the incident to identify any areas for improvement in their emergency response protocols. Regular maintenance checks of gas lines and ventilation systems are standard practice, but such incidents underscore their importance.
- School evacuated: Partial evacuation of Building 900.
- Source identified: Gas leak in Building 900.
- Repairs completed: By 11:58 a.m.
- Area cleared: Five Cities Fire Authority and Gas Company.
- Building use: Closed for the day, students relocated.
Broader Community Context
This incident occurred amidst other local events in the San Luis Obispo County area. Earlier on the same day, a 2.7-magnitude earthquake shook the county at 9:43 a.m. Separately, a driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, causing a crash near Cal Poly SLO at 10:48 a.m.
While unrelated to the gas leak, these events highlight a busy day for local emergency services and the community. The ability of emergency responders to manage multiple incidents simultaneously is critical for public safety.
The focus remains on the health and safety of the students and staff at Arroyo Grande High School. The school district continues to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.
