Explosion Rattles Lake Jennings Neighborhood

Lake Jennings Area-

On Wednesday, July 13, 2011, at 4:53p.m., the Lakeside Fire Protection District received calls about a loud explosion and smoke in the area of the Levi Water Treatment Plant in the 9500 block of Lake Jennings Park Rd. Concurrently, the communications center at the Sheriff's Department lit up with multiple calls reference an explosion in the area. Engine Company 3, and Battalion 1 (Tockstein), responded from the Lake Jennings fire station, with a number of deputies.

Debris field left after a malfunctioning unit exploded.

Firefighters responded to the treatment plant and met with Helix Water District personnel. During an on-site inspection of the facility, it was discovered that a mechanical unit, used in the process of water purification, had suffered a catastrophic mechanical failure resulting in a significant explosion.

Firefighters checked for any type of hazardous materials release or other hazards that may have resulted in an additional explosion. Helix personnel quickly resolved the situation and no hazardous materials were involved in the incident.

 A total of 4 Lakeside Fire personnel responded to the call, assisted by the San Diego Sheriff's Department.

Submitted By: Fire Captain Mark Grow, Lakeside Fire District