When a routine morning school bus route in Cleveland Heights, Ohio turned dangerous, quick thinking and prior emergency training proved vital for saving lives. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, demonstrated how regular safety drills can make a critical difference when real emergencies arise.
Heroic driver evacuates 15 students from burning bus
A Cleveland Heights school bus driver successfully evacuated 15 Monticello Middle School students after Bus No. 21 caught fire during the morning route. The fire, which initiated behind one of the rear wheels, prompted immediate action from the driver, who wishes to remain anonymous.
Cleveland Heights University Heights City School District Superintendent Liz Kirby commended the driver’s swift response, stating, “I can’t express how relieved I am that no one was hurt, and I am incredibly grateful for the quick response from the driver.”
Safety drills prove crucial in emergency response
The successful evacuation wasn’t just luck – it was the result of thorough preparation. “I spoke with the driver today, and they credited the annual bus evacuation drills they do with students with preparing them,” Kirby explained. The superintendent also praised the students’ composure during the emergency, noting, “I also must credit the students for reacting so calmly and following the driver’s instructions to get to safety.”
Extent of damage and emergency response
According to the Cleveland Heights Fire Department documentation, the fire caused significant damage to the vehicle. Flames extended through the bus windows, producing heavy smoke that temporarily affected nearby residences. The intense heat even ignited a neighboring tree. Despite the severity of the blaze, firefighters successfully contained the fire, and no injuries were reported among students, the driver, or emergency personnel.
The incident remains under investigation, with the school district collaborating with both the Cleveland Heights Fire Department and the State Highway Patrol to determine the fire’s cause.
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