The Three Rivers School District has recognized four local firefighters for their heroic actions in limiting damage to a Grants Pass area elementary school during a heavy rainstorm last month.
On Sunday, March 16th, flood waters threatened to cause significant damage to Fort Vannoy Elementary as a result of a sudden break in the levee holding in the swollen creek behind the school.
Three Rural Metro firefighters were nearby dealing with a stranded motorist stuck in the middle of a submerged Upper River Road. Recognizing the imminent threat to the unoccupied school, the Rural Metro trio rushed to divert water from entering the building under the doors. A firefighter from Grants Pass Fire & Rescue joined the effort by bringing out sandbagging supplies.
As a result of these efforts, damages were minimized and Fort Vannoy students were allowed to return to class a few days later, with full recovery from the damage by April 1st.
The four firefighters were recently recognized for their actions by the Three Rivers School District and the Safer Josephine County Foundation.
