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Extracted from Consolidated Report
This investigation was originally published as part of a larger consolidated report containing multiple investigations. View the consolidated PDF for the complete document.
⚠️ Translation Notice: This content has been automatically translated. The original English text is the official version. Translation may contain errors.
⚠️ Este contenido ha sido traducido automáticamente. El texto original en inglés es la versión oficial. La traducción puede contener errores.
Findings 5 findings
F1
Avenal State Prison's hydronic loop piping system, which supplies hot water and steam to the housing units, is antiquated and in need of replacement. However, limited funding impedes the replacement progress.
F2
Regarding the Avenal State Prison's reported high rate of Valley Fever cases, the steps taken by the prison staff to protect the prison population from exposure/infection are effective.
F3
Hydrant flushing and inspection has waned due to drought conditions. Recommendation 3 If hydrants are unable to be inspected without releasing large amounts of water, the City of Lemoore should look into ways of recycling the water released from the hydrants. Also, utilizing a hydrant cap with a pin hole allows the inspector to inspect the hydrants without releasing large amounts of water. This method of inspection has been successful with other municipalities.
F4
Information on the Lemoore City fire hydrant status is not readily available to other entities besides Lemoore Public Works/Planning Services.
F5
Kings County Fire Department has several stations manned by one firefighter, which could lead to dangerous situations. The firefighter cannot drive and read the engine map book for directions or hydrant location. Once on scene, the firefighter cannot make an interior rescue or fire attack alone. He is forced to wait for the next additional firefighter to arrive. A Kings County firefighter was injured while maintaining equipment at a one- man station and was unable to receive first aid in a timely manner.
Recommendations 5
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R1Avenal State Prison should continue the spot repairs on the hydronic loop piping system as needed. The prison administrative staff should be persistent in their appeal for appropriate funding for a complete system replacement.
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R2The Avenal State Prison staff should continue the precautionary procedures they have implemented.
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R3If hydrants are unable to be inspected without releasing large amounts of water, the City of Lemoore should look into ways of recycling the water released from the hydrants. Also, utilizing a hydrant cap with a pin hole allows the inspector to inspect the hydrants without releasing large amounts of water. This method of inspection has been successful with other municipalities. This recommendation is being researched by City staff and will likely be implemented.
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R4The Lemoore Public Works/Planning Services should report to the Lemoore City Council and the Lemoore Volunteer Fire Department the hydrant inspection data on a quarterly basis.
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R5All stations should be manned by at least two firefighters.