A fire at McMath secondary last week has resulted in both gyms at the school being out of commission until at least the New Year.
Last Wednesday, Nov. 28, during the Grade 8 boys basketball team’s first game of the season versus Cambie in the large gym, the fire alarm sounded.
According to the school’s website, everyone was quickly evacuated, including fans of both teams.
The school’s fire panel indicated the sprinklers had been triggered in the small gym.
Richmond Fire-Rescue arrived at the scene and discovered a large foam mat, is stored between the two gyms, was on fire.
According to the message on the website from school principal Jane McFadyen, it’s not yet known how the mat was ignited and the matter is currently under investigation.
“Our school district staff was very responsive tonight with electrical, plumbing and HVAC personnel, as well as maintenance management, all coming to our assistance,” the statement added.
The clean-up operation began swiftly and powerful fans and air scrubbers were in operation.
This week, however, after school district staff consulted with a restoration company about the gyms, due to water and smoke damage, both gyms need new floors.
“We are likely looking into at least the middle of January, possibly the end of the month before the space is usable again,” added McFadyen in the statement.
“Fortunately, many of our PE classes are just about to start their dance unit and will now use the Rotunda. Some PE classes will continue to use classrooms for the health component of the course. Some PE classes may go outside, weather permitting.”
The school is now working hard to find gym space for basketball practices and games and are hoping from help from neighbouring elementary and secondary schools.
