Fire Department

A pipe burst inside a vacant building on International Lane caused significant damage.

Engine Company 10 was called to 2917 International Lane after a passerby noticed ice buildup outside the building. The ice accumulated along a front corner of the building, extending from the third floor down to the ground.

Firefighters gained access to the building and immediately discovered water flowing from the ceilings of the first and second floors. Ceiling tiles, carpet, and other stored office supplies suffered significant damage. In some areas, water seeped into the floor boards and flowed from baseboard heaters.

Engine 10 pulled some items out into a dry areas to attempt to salvage them. Upon accessing the sprinkler control room, firefighters shut down all water flow and the domestic water line, which put a stop to the flooding. It took several hours for authorities to reach a responsible party for the property.

SAFETY TIP: During this time of extreme cold, it is important to keep buildings heated, even if they are unoccupied. This prevents water from freezing, expanding inside pipes, and causing pipes to burst.