Earlier today, there was a significant public safety response in the vicinity of Madison Elementary School in Pella due to a fire alarm being triggered. The alarm was accompanied by the smell of something hot and light smoke in the gymnasium. This incident happened just before the school day was set to begin at around 8:05 a.m. The students and staff were quickly evacuated and taken to a meeting point outside the school. Responders from Pella Fire, Pella Ambulance, Marion County Emergency Management, and Pella PD all responded to provide assistance. The school’s equipment was shut down, and the building was ventilated to clear out the smoke. The Pella Fire Department declared the area safe by 8:45 a.m., and the students were able to get back to school a little after 9:00 a.m.

“We want to extend our gratitude to the students for their cooperation and the school staff for their swift response, which ensured everyone’s safety during this emergency.”