Collaboration leads to solutions

On June 15, the Water and Sewer Services (WSS) and Fire departments partnered for an innovative solution to a complex problem. To successfully install a new sewer connection, WSS asked for the Fire Department’s help. This request for assistance turned into an opportunity for fire officials.

“It was great for both departments to get a glimpse of what the other does, and how our service to the community all comes together in the end,” said District Chief Pete Sanders. “This was an opportunity to train in a live trench and practice something we rarely get to do.”

Due to the placement of conduit and concrete enclosed utilities at the new Texas Roadhouse Restaurant on North Roan Street, WSS was unable to set a traditional trench box. This is where Fire stepped in to lend a hand. Using the Technical Rescue Trailer, fire crews shored up an 8x8x7-foot pit along with a 7-foot connecting trench using a combination of straight line, corner and wooden shoring.

District Chief Sanders expressed gratitude to everyone who assisted in bringing the departments together. In turn, WSS has offered an invitation to Fire for additional training opportunities. Building on partnerships like these creates innovative opportunities for growth and learning as well as reinforces teamwork.