Hundreds of students were evacuated from the Ventura College Library and Learning Resources Center and surrounding trailer classrooms after a misstep during construction led to a minor gas leak.

The Ventura College Campus Police received a call concerning the leak at approximately 9:20 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 11.

Battalion Chief Matt Brock of the Ventura City Fire Department arrived on the scene along with two fire trucks and a representative from the Gas Company.

“The low-pressure leak was caused by a perforate of a service line,” said Brock. “The gasses leaked are not toxic and students are not in eminent danger.”

Brock admitted that the response by the fire department and police officials were excessive for the nature of this incident. The leak was contained immediately upon response, he said. Within the hour gas meter readings were at zero.

“Campus maintenance personnel turned off the gas to the entire campus and are in the process of fixing [the leak],” said Brock. “The construction company will repair the line.”

Many students were not alarmed by the incident and stood near the site waiting for approval to return. Others were confused about the status of classes and were undecided about whether to remain on campus or leave.

Lizeth Esparza, a 19-year-old meteorology major, was among the few who saw the positive in the chaos.

“I just got saved with my English class,” she said, “and now homework is not due until Tuesday.”

Ashley Yepez, an 18-year-old biology major, waited patiently by the library’s doors.

“I was working on a computer on the bottom level when we were all asked to step out,” she said.

Students and faculty were allowed to return to their classrooms and the library at approximately 10:02 a.m.