A busted sprinkler head in the attic caused an emergency response from the Sterling Fire Department, Rock Falls Fire Department, and CGH EMS, as well as an evacuation of occupants from the facility.
When responders arrived, they found the sprinkler system activated and staff reporting water coming from the ceiling in the southwest area of the facility. Staff had begun evacuating the occupants from that wing.
Firefighters located a broken head above the ceiling in that area and shut off the water. To stop the system, water had to be shut off for the entire building. Additional Hazards were identified, including water entering electrical wiring, light fixtures, and operating water heaters.
The Sterling Code Enforcement Department was requested to the scene. Upon arrival, a plan was developed for the care of the occupants, as they would not be able to remain at the facility until the issues were resolved.
Fortunately, the company had another facility in Dixon that could accommodate the occupants; however, travel time and the assistance required would take longer than was deemed safe for the occupants.
At that point, the Whiteside County Senior Center offered transportation to move the occupants to their facility. The occupants were cared for until Shepherds Premier Senior Living Center could relocate them to the Dixon facility.
The East LeFevre location will require updates to the fire alarm, sprinkler system, and electrical systems before the facility can be reoccupied.