GRANITE QUARRY — East Rowan High School students were relocated to nearby Erwin Middle School on Wednesday after the smell of gas was reported.

In the early afternoon hours, the Granite Quarry Fire Department was called to investigate the scene. As a precaution, officials decided to evacuate students.

A message from Principal Tonya Brinegar-German indicated that a gas leak was detected shortly after lunchtime.

Students were evacuated to the front lawn at East Rowan.

“The fire department and school officials responded, investigated the situation and ventilated the wing,” Brinegar-German said.

After learning the process would take a couple hours, officials moved the students from the front lawn to Erwin Middle across the street.

“The fire department and gas company gave us the ‘all-clear,’ and we returned to the building at 2:10 p.m.,” Brinegar-German said. “We appreciate all you do as parents to support the education and safety of all East Rowan students. Student safety is the highest priority for Rowan-Salisbury Schools, and we are all working diligently every day to ensure the safety of children. Working together allows us to provide the very best for our community.”