Accident in the laboratory doc

Accident in the laboratory

After classes on Monday, we were passing near the
chemistry laboratory when we saw a strange figure
running out of the chemistry lab. The stranger was tall with
stooping shoulders. His hair was below his dirty shirt
collar. The left leg of his dark blue jeans was rolled up to
his knees.

At first we thought that he was Mr. Tan, the laboratory
assistant, but he was too shabbily dressed to be Mr. Tan.
While we were deciding who he was, we suddenly heard
an explosion in the lab. Without second thoughts, we
rushed into the lab to investigate. We were greeted by
thick black smoke when we opened the door of the lab.
We covered our mouths and noses with our handkerchiefs
and with much difficulty, found the source of the fire.

The three liter can of kerosene was undoubtedly the fire
initiator. We took the little pails at the corner of the lab to
put out the fire. While we were struggling with this little
fire-fighting, we were rudely interrupted by a series of loud
explosions behind us. We turned around and to our horror
we saw flames near the front door and also the small fire
exit by the left side of the lab.

We were trapped and the only way of escaping was
through the narrow windows which were barred with thick
wire. We realized the hopelessness of the situation as we
were completely engulfed in thick fumes and smoke. The
acid compartment of the cabinet exploded and also caught

fire. The smell was unbearable.

In between desperate gasps of breath, we shouted for
help. In a few minutes we heard the windows being
broken. Then excited voices were heard outside. We could
not see even our own hands which were held in front of
your eyes, let alone the crowd which must have already
gathered outside.

Our hearts beat vigorously as we waited patiently to be
rescued. We controlled our breaths and tried not to inhale
much of the possibly poisonous fumes. Then, before we
realized it, we were pulled out of the lab, through the
windows by fire-fighters.

Now I am feeling better, I can recall that my friends and I
have seen the man, possibly the culprit, loitering in the
canteen outside during the break. We really hope that the
man can be traced and proper action be taken against
him.