Suffolk Reporter

The full network, including internet and phones, is now back online. All is set for school to resume as normal tomorrow morning.

Fire officials officially gave the all-clear signal at 3:30 am this morning. Gas has been completely expelled from the tank, the valve has been repaired, and all is safe. The building recorded zero readings of gas so it is also safe to enter. At this time, the high school is scheduled to be open tomorrow. No other buildings are affected. However, the odorant that fire officials used will likely cause a lingering smell that has entered the building. Custodial and facilities staff are working hard to air out the building in time for school tomorrow. Additionally, when the power was shut down, the network went offline including phone systems. We will continue to keep the community informed if anything changes regarding the high school schedule tomorrow.

Special thanks to the following responding units for their assistance in ensuring this issue was rectified safely and efficiently: Mastic Fire Department, Mastic Beach Fire Department, Center Moriches Fire Department, Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal's Office, Mastic Volunteer Ambulance Company, Mastic Beach Ambulance Company and Suffolk County Fire Rescue and Emergency Services. Also responding to assist were National Grid and Paraco Gas. Special thanks also go to William Floyd’s custodial, facilities and security staff for their assistance during this emergency.

Tonight, a gas valve malfunctioned and caused a propane leak outside of William Floyd High School (south side of the building). The Mastic Fire Department and Brookhaven Hazmat responded as quickly as possible to survey the scene and ensure all is contained and safe. The Brookhaven Town Fire Marshal is also on scene. Power has been shut off to the building as first responders continue to check for elevated gas levels – so far none have been found. The situation is under control at this time as fire officials are currently using a flare device to burn off residual gas before making repairs. We thank our first responders for their quick response in handling this situation. School is already closed for Labor Day on Monday, September 2nd. We will provide an update regarding school on Tuesday as soon as possible.