Reports of a loud “boom” at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College’s Andalusia campus this morning drew swift responses from local police and fire personnel, but was the result of a gas build up that sounded worse that it was, according to LBW officials.

“There was a gas build up in the culinary lab oven and a loud ‘boom’ when the pilot light caught,” Renee LeMaire, director of the college’s marketing and development, said. “There were no injuries and no visible equipment damage.”

LeMaire said authorities were notified in order to ensure the safety of all students, faculty and staff  involved, as well as to eliminate the possibility of any further build ups of gas.

“We called the fire department to be thorough and had a quick response from them and the Andalusia Police Department, for which we are extremely grateful,” she said. “The gas is turned off and upon the fire chief’s clearance, we have returned to our offices. There will be further inspection by the gas company, just to be safe.”

LeMaire stressed LBW officials’ appreciation to emergency personnel  for their prompt response to the incident.

“We are extremely grateful for the prompt response by both the Andalusia fire and police departments, and thankful there were no injuries or property damage,” she said.