1. Saxton Volunteer Fire Company
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Company 35 – Providing 24/7 Coverage 365 Days per Year
June 26, 2015
For Immediate Release
Contact Writer: Branden S. Diehl—webmaster@saxtonfire35.com--814-977-1942
Company 35 is urging local residents to remain vigilant over the next 24-36 hours, as the area is anticipating rainfall
of varying amounts and intensity. Currently, the area is under a flash flood watch until 2AM Sunday, June 28. The
National Weather Service estimates rainfall to be between 2 and 3 inches.
Branden S. Diehl, Public Information Officer said, “We’re prepared, and we’re ready for whatever the storm brings
us. If necessary, we will implement a 24-7 staffing plan, and set-up an in-house incident command center.”
The company has checked their ‘trash’ pumps used for pumping basements, tested generators, inspected their boat,
and prepared equipment that may need deployed.
Diehl said, “We’re generally lucky. With the exception of past flooding in the Shoups Run area and some localized,
urban flooding on 913 close to the entrance to the high school, we usually don’t have many flood calls. Unlike other
companies, we typically don’t pump many basements. We’re more likely to see rock slides on SR 164, some downed
trees, and MVAs caused by ponding water. According to NOAA River Forecasting the Raystown Branch of the
Juniata will peak at about 9’ early Sunday afternoon. This is 8’ below flood stage.”
Saxton Fire Deparment reminds residents to:
1. Remove valuables and movable electronics out of one’s basement or elevate them in case of flooding,
2. Check gutters, downspouts, and storm drains in advance of the storm,
3. If you live in a flood prone area be prepared to evacuate (have a kit with two day’s worth of medicine and
supplies),
4. Be vigilant about rising water,
5. Remove hazardous materials near drains or waterways that may contaminate waterways and water sources,
6. Remove debris from along creek and stream banks,
7. Reduce travels speeds,
8. Check wipers before traveling and ensure all lights are operable, and
9. Remember moving water is powerful and can render your car inoperable.
Depending on the storm’s impact and severity, the Urban Search and Rescue Company may be deployed to assist
with rescue and search operations. Company 5 is housed at Station 35 and is primarily responsible for covering
Bedford, Fulton, Blair, Huntingdon, Mifflin, Juniata, Centre, and Snyder Counties, but can be deployed elswhere. The
Company deployed in 2011 in response to devastating flooding within the Susquehanna Valley resulting from
Tropical Storm Lee.
The Saxton Fire House is a certified emergency shelter, and will be opened if the need arises. If you find yourself
without power or needing emergency shelter call 814-623-1105.