June 7, 2008

Fire stations sustain damage

       Heavy rains that pummeled the area for over fifteen hours caused severe widespread flooding that affected just about every home and business in some way in White River Township on Saturday.  Unfortunately, the fire department was no different.  Station 52 on Meridian Parke Lane was struck by lightning and Station 53 on Mullinix Road incurred flooding waters.

         The lightning strike at Station 52 was to the radio tower behind the building and damaged the station's alerting system and computer network.  Fortunately, lightning protection on the equipment spared more significant damage.  Firefighters will use mobile laptops and hand-held radios in the interim until the equipment is repaired.  Crews will be out Monday to begin repair work.

         Station 53 was in the direct path of the rapidly overflowing White River just west of the station.  Fortunately however, the water receded nearly as quickly as it rose, leaving the office and living areas just a quarter inch above the flood level.  The bay area however did flood, as well as the entire parking lot and surrounding property, but no significant damage was noted.  Crews will work tomorrow to begin the cleanup as today they are focusing on area rescue and evacuation efforts that are under way. 


 

           
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