Robotics team saves the day by battling fire at school

In the United States, a fire broke out on Saturday afternoon at Pentucket Regional Middle-High School in West Newbury, Massachusetts, during robotics practice. The fire started in the auditorium, specifically from a trash barrel filled with sawdust, believed to be an accidental ignition. The West Newbury Fire Department responded after being alerted by the robotics students, who noticed the smoke. As they quickly investigated, they found flames and made the crucial 911 call while also locating fire extinguishers to combat the fire, preventing extensive damage to the stage area. Approximately 20 individuals, including students and staff, were evacuated without any injuries reported. The fire department noted significant smoke presence, which would require ventilation efforts in the affected areas. Assistant Superintendent Brent Conway commended the rapid response of the students, stating that their actions potentially saved the school from greater damage and disruption, marking a moment of quick thinking and teamwork. After the incident, it was determined that the school would remain closed through Tuesday to manage the smoke damage in the auditorium and adjacent cafeteria. The robotics team faced challenges ahead of their upcoming competitions, as the fire incident likely interrupted their preparation schedule. The team had planned to compete in the New England District Championships in February, and robotics teacher Mo Elhelw indicated that the situation posed a significant setback that they must navigate. The investigation into the fire cause is ongoing, although preliminary reports suggest it was unintentional. The incident has underscored the importance of safety measures and emergency preparedness in educational settings. The quick action of the robotics team not only mitigated immediate dangers but also highlighted their training and readiness to respond to emergencies effectively, setting a good example for their peers in similar situations.