A potentially hazardous situation triggered an emergency evacuation at Belize Elementary School on February 16, 2026, when potent butane fumes permeated the campus grounds. The incident commenced shortly after 11:30 AM when school administrators detected an intensifying gas odor that began infiltrating classrooms and outdoor areas.
Principal Majiba Sharp immediately activated the institution’s comprehensive emergency protocol. This coordinated response involved notifying the local fire department, executing an orderly classroom evacuation, and implementing a multi-channel alert system to inform parents in real-time about the developing situation.
Investigation revealed the source of the hazardous fumes originated from a compromised gas tank at an adjacent burger establishment situated near the school’s entrance. School officials confirmed this vendor had been previously identified as a concern due to the proximity of their propane equipment to campus facilities.
The evacuation proceeded with notable efficiency as digital communication systems enabled rapid parent notification through SMS messages, email alerts, and dedicated class chat groups. This streamlined communication allowed for swift student reunification with arriving guardians.
Following intervention by fire department personnel who successfully contained the leak and secured the perimeter, school administration confirmed that regular academic operations would resume the following day. The incident highlighted both the effectiveness of the school’s emergency preparedness and ongoing safety concerns regarding adjacent commercial operations.