Hot Mess: Easton Crews Tackle Water Main Break On High Ridge Road

EASTON, CT — Easton fire and repair crews had a long, hot day Wednesday following a water main break on High Ridge Road.

The Easton Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched in response to the break at 9:05 a.m., and was soon joined by teams from the Department of Public Works and Aquarion. Water was shut off within one hour, according to a statement from First Selectman David Bindelglass, and silt screens were put down to mitigate any environmental damage to the extent possible.

The problem, as determined by Aquarion subcontractor Burns Construction, was a large hole in a 12-inch steel pipe which led to a crack extending several feet further up the hill. After setting up a temporary bypass of the break and taking time to repressurize the system, crew were able to provide some water to customers.

The work of repairing the main by placing and connecting a replacement section of pipe was completed around 7 p.m. No water was contaminated, and no tap water needs to boiled prior to use, according to Bindelglass.

Members of the Easton Volunteer Fire Department were on the scene for 10 hours, securing the water main and assisting residents around the break site and back to their homes. Back at the firehouse, other department members handed out cases of bottled water to the residents, according to a post on social media.

"While this is a large job to deal with, it is Aquarion's responsibility and there will be no town expense," Bindelglass said. "That being said, Aquarion and Burns were extremely forthright and professional and the work was accomplished with great speed allowing almost all of us to return to our normal lives within the day."

South Park Avenue is now open. Work is ongoing on High Ridge road, with local residents allowed limited access.