WASHINGTON CO. COMMISSIONERS APPROVE EMERGENCY REPAIRS TO JAIL’S FIRE SAFETY SYSTEM AFTER LIGHTNING STRIKE

  

The Washington County Commissioners held an emergency meeting Thursday morning to discuss a lightning strike that took place Tuesday night at the Washington County Jail.  The lightning strike damaged the fire safety system at the jail.  Since this is a life safety issue, the jailers have to go on a 15-minute fire watch until the fire panel is repaired, tested and functional.  The commissioners approved the institution of emergency procedures and the repair to the fire safety system.  The estimated cost of a new fire panel and associated equipment is $25,000.  Insurance is expected to cover the cost of the new panel and the increased cost of the 15-minute fire watch.