Epoxy damages Charleroi Fire Department equipment at Speers fire
CHARLEROI – Melting epoxy caused nearly $40,000 in damages to equipment and gear used by members of Charleroi Fire Department while they doused a fire last weekend at a polymer plant in Speers.
The pink resin damaged two air pack harnesses, seven sections of hose, five pieces of face protection and gloves, boots and other gear worn July 9 by the firefighters at a fire that was quickly extinguished at National Polymers on Guttman Avenue, Charleroi fire Chief Bob Whiten said.
He said equipment also was damaged at departments that assisted Charleroi from Fallowfield Township, Stockdale, Monessen and Lock Four, but Charleroi sustained the most damage from the epoxy.
The company was excellent to deal with in regards to the damages, Whiten said.
“The plant manager told us to get a list, take pictures and turn in the cost,” he said.
Whiten said some of his department’s radio microphones also were damaged.
“The gear manufacturer said once there is any chemical intrusion it has to be replaced,” he said.