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Last updated on Wednesday, May 15, 2013
(EASTERN HEIGHTS) - Starting Tuesday morning, three area volunteer fire departments will have state-certified personnel on site at Eastern Greene Elementary and Middle School as a safety precaution.
Nick Schneider of the Greene County Daily World reports that on Monday afternoon, Center Township Fire Chief Jeremy Inman was informed that the fire alarm system for the school complex - which is due to be replaced after the current school year ends in about two weeks - 'went down' and is inoperable.
He was directed by the State Fire Marshal's office to make sure 'certified' fire personnel are at the school grounds during operating hours until the system is repaired.
Superintendent Ty Mungle, who says he wasn't aware the system was completely shut-down, explained that the aged system has been a constant source of problems and expensive repairs. In addition, the system apparently was struck recently by lightning adding to the problems.
In March, the board agreed to purchase a new Siemens brand fire alarm system from Adco Alarm Systems of Indianapolis for $57,555. It is slated to be installed after the school year ends later this month.
without an operating alarm system during school hours, the safety of the estimated 900 students and 100 staff members in the school buildings was at risk.
Fire Chief Inman explained that according to state regulations when an alarm system is not operating in a school, one certified firefighter for every 500 students must be present on the school campus when students are present.
One firefighter each from Center Township in Little Cincinnati, Jackson Township/Owensburg and Eastern Greene Fire Department in Solsberry would be hired to man the fire protection duties as a precaution until the alarm is fixed.
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