Photos: Flood Recovery Continues at Firehouse in Union Township, PA

"The most important thing -- everyone is OK."

That's what Elrama Volunteer Fire Company Assistant Chief Lenny Bailey had to say following a disastrous flood at the firehouse earlier this month.

Had firefighters not been standing around talking after returning from a call, Bailey said in all likely would have been killed.

“They were hanging out when they heard a big bang outside the bay door.”

Seconds later, water from a 48-inch main rushed into the station sending the crew scampering to escape. They stayed together and made it out a side door as nearly three  feet of water flooded the station.

They jumped in a personal vehicle and drove it through debris to get it away from the building.

Bailey’s Jeep, however, wasn’t as lucky. The powerful water blast sent it feet into the air. It landed in a sinkhole amid debris.

The water that swept through the station left a wide path of destruction. Air bottles, hoses, turnout gear, chainsaws and other equipment were strewn about.

“We found turnout gear on a nearby baseball field. Bottles went over a hill…Who knows where else it went…”

Among the items lost were at least more than a dozen sets of turnout gear and 20 or more sections of hose. 

A 2014 Dodge Ram used as a squad was destroyed while a Pierce sustained electrical issues. Another fire rescue vehicle also was damaged by the exposure to water and sludge.

“This rescue truck is less than one year old. Thanks to the prompt assistance, it was able to be fully evaluated and returned to operational status.”

The pumper was expected back this week as well.

Firefighters have been operating out of their other station using a pumper loaned from Elizabeth Township and a rescue rig from Jefferson Hills Fire Rescue. Finleyville crews also are responding to assist on calls.

Bailey said the department is working with the insurance company from American Water.

“There’s been a lot of support from the community. We’re grateful for that.”

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