Fire Department response prevented possible catastrophe in Lowville

LOWVILLE- Emergency responders prevented what could have ended up being a catastrophe early Friday at Lewis County Historical Society.

Lowville Fire Department was dispatched shortly after 2:00 a.m. to a fire alarm at the Historical Society, located at 7552 South State Street. 

With the use of thermal imaging, first responders determined there was no active fire, however; there was smoke coming from the boiler room. 

According to Lowville Fire Chief Joe Austin, there was an active boiler malfunction and a risk of explosion was significant.  

Firefighters successfully disabled all natural gas and electric power, but they had to use battery operated fans to help cool the boiler temperature, which reportedly reached temperatures over 1000-degrees fahrenheit.

Emergency responders noted the significant risk of possible explosion, which would have resulted in significant damage to the Historical Society, along with likely flying shrapnel. 

Once the boiler was cooled down, the building was turned back over to officials from the Historical Society. 

Chief Austin says the furnace will likely need replacing due to significant heat damage to the electronics and holding chambers. 

Members from National Grid, NYSEG, Lewis County Search & Rescue and Lewis County Sheriff's Office all assisted.  

Lowville Fire Department image.