Challenge
In early 2023, a significant water loss incident occurred at the Calistoga Unified School District, primarily affecting the gym building, including the basketball court, kitchen, and several bathrooms. The issue stemmed from a malfunction in the supply line to the sprinkler system, resulting in extensive water damage that threatened the integrity of the school’s facilities.
The urgency of the situation demanded immediate attention to prevent further deterioration and to ensure the safety and usability of the affected areas.
Proposed Solution
West Coast Fire & Water’s 24/7 Rapid Response Team was deployed to the scene on the same evening the incident was reported, arriving promptly at 7 PM. Upon assessment, the team initiated emergency procedures, which included the following steps.
1. Demolition & Assessment
The ceiling was carefully demolished to access the water-damaged areas, and flood cuts were made on the drywall to allow for effective drying of the insulation.
2. Drying Equipment Installation
To facilitate thorough drying, desiccant dehumidifiers were installed that night. These units ran continuously for 12 to 14 days to ensure complete moisture removal, particularly beneath the basketball court floorboards, where moisture could lead to mold growth if left unaddressed.
3. Collaboration for Reconstruction
Once the drying process was completed, West Coast coordinated and managed the reconstruction phase of the project, ensuring that repairs were carried out efficiently and effectively.
Results
The prompt and decisive actions taken by West Coast Fire & Water not only mitigated the immediate water damage but also safeguarded the school against potential long-term issues such as mold growth. The successful collaboration with Bridges Construction allowed for a seamless transition from emergency response to reconstruction, enabling the Calistoga Unified School District to reopen the affected areas with minimal disruption to its operations.
The school was able to resume normal activities swiftly, demonstrating the effectiveness of West Coast’s emergency response and restoration services in critical situations.
