Manchester-by-the-Sea Fire Department Responds After Broken Lightbulb Causes Minor Leak at Manchester Essex Middle School

MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — Fire Chief James T. McNeilly and Superintendent Pam Beaudoin report that firefighters responded to Manchester Essex Middle School on Thursday after a broken lightbulb caused a minor leak in a science classroom storage area.

On Thursday, March 12, Manchester-by-the-Sea Fire responded to the Middle School for a report of a broken lightbulb, which can release a small amount of mercury.

Firefighters quickly located the source of the leak, identified the affected rooms, isolated them, and ventilated the area.

A Massachusetts Department of Fire Services Hazmat Team was notified and responded on scene. Their investigation did not provide any evidence of contamination.

No evacuations were necessary, and officials confirmed there was no threat to the health or safety of students or staff.

“We appreciate the Fire Department and other first responders for their quick and thorough response,” said Superintendent Beaudoin. “The safety of our staff and students is our top priority.”

“Middle school staff did the right thing promptly reporting this issue,” said Chief McNeilly. “Whenever we are called to a situation like this, our priority is to investigate thoroughly, identify the source, and make sure that students and staff remain safe. In this case, our crews were able to quickly isolate and ventilate the affected area.”