Volunteers On Hand to Help in Water Crisis

IRONWOOD, MI - Saturday, January 10, 2009 - 1:00 PM - Dozens of volunteers have gathered at the Ironwood Public Safety Department to assist with water distribution for those needing potable water. The IPSD has been designated by Gogebic County as the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) for the water break emergency the City is now experiencing. Many homes throughout the area are either without water or are experiencing extremely low water pressure. City officials urge residents to boil any water to be used for cooking or consumption, but they also ask that people do their best to conserve water during this crisis. Water levels in the City water supply are extremely low.

According to Jim Loeper, Gogebic County Emergency Management Coordinator, the City fixed a major leak in front of Doreen's Antiques on Lake Street. Many water customers may still be experiencing low water pressure or even no water due to valve issues and possible "air locks" in the system. City crews remain on the scene and have been working around the clock in an effort to restore water service. Hydrants and water lines are being bled in an effort to eliminate air blockages.

While this reporter was at the EOC just minutes ago, City personnel radioed in that there may be at least one more major leak that could be causing problems. City staff and crew are exploring all alternatives.

Loeper told the Chronicle that the Hurley School has been made available in the event that evacuations become necessary. Once water is restored, according to Loeper, the water will need to be tested and results need to be approved by the Michigan DEQ. Until that time, the boiling of tap water is recommended as a safety precaution.

The Ironwood Public Safety Department; the Department of Public Works; the City Water Department; the Ironwood Volunteer Fire Department; the Hurley Fire Department; the Ironwood Township Volunteer Fire Department; Bessemer Township; Wal-Mart; Copp's Food Center; Victim Services; the Red Cross; Iron County Emergency Management; the Gogebic County Emergency Management; the Gogebic/Ontonagon Community Action Agency; McDonald's; Ben's Place; Holiday Gas Station; the Grand View Hospital; the Gogebic County Forestry Department; the Iron County Sheriff's Department; the Polar Bear Girl's Hockey Club; the Ironwood City Commission; the Gogebic County Board; the Michigan State Police; Little Caesars Pizza; the Gogebic County Sheriff's Department; and Ross Peterson Construction have all been assisting in the emergency effort. The Chronicle apologizes for any names left out of the above list.

Tomorrow, trucks and people will been needed to deliver water to homes. Anyone willing to donate their time and/or delivery vehicle is asked to call the Ironwood Public Safety Department at (906) 932-1234.

The Chronicle will pass along updates and press releases as the become available.