Transformer fire forces evacuation and cancels classes at Barbers Hill High School

What happened

A transformer caught fire on a Wednesday morning at Barbers Hill High School in Mont Belvieu, Texas. Barbers Hill Independent School District said students and staff were quickly evacuated when the fire started. No injuries were reported. An aerial view from SkyEye showed the transformer appeared charred and smoking. The district later said the fire was out and people were allowed back into the building. However, the fire left the school without power, so the district cancelled classes for the rest of the day. Parents were told they could collect their children as soon as possible. Instruction continued at all other Barbers Hill ISD campuses.

Contributing factors

The source does not report the cause of the transformer fire. It does not state who owns or maintains the transformer.

Lessons learned

1. Transformers serving schools and other public buildings need regular inspection for overheating, oil or insulation deterioration and damage, because a single unit failure can close a site.
2. Evacuation drills should cover electrical fires at equipment such as transformers, so staff and students can leave quickly and safely.
3. Schools should have contingency plans for loss of power, including parent communication and alternative teaching arrangements, so that classes can be cancelled or relocated without confusion.

More lessons on electrical protection and isolation, emergency response and public communication, from every incident on the register.

Source

abc13.com