In the world of emergency restoration, no two days are the same, and no two challenges are alike. When a large-scale water loss occurred on a freezing cold night, the Large Loss Team—James Macleod, Tristan Skjerpen, Danny Samia, Stacey Coyle, and Rudy Condotta—demonstrated the power of teamwork, trust and exceeding expectations. All while demonstrating expertise and resilience. Their efforts turned adversity into success, showcasing their unwavering commitment to restoring service efficiently and effectively.
The Initial Emergency and Response
The situation unfolded quickly when a significant watermain break impacted a large residential complex, leaving thousands without water. The ARS/Global Emergency Management team mobilized immediately, coordinating resources, assessing damage, and ensuring a rapid response. As the extent of the damage became clearer, it was evident that this would not be a straightforward fix—it would take around-the-clock effort to restore service safely and efficiently.
Challenges Faced and Overcoming Them
This project presented several challenges. Managing multiple trades and workers concurrently while ensuring morale remained high despite the frigid conditions was a significant hurdle. Continuous monitoring of water flow to different areas, including entrances, driveways, and parking garages, was necessary to prevent further complications.
Excavation posed another major challenge, requiring extreme caution to avoid damaging underground utilities like gas, electrical, and sanitary lines while moving as fast as possible to restore water service. Sourcing specialized equipment on the fly and securing a constant water supply for tenants added further layers of complexity.
Dealing with frustrated residents who had been without water for an extended period required patience, empathy, and reassurance. Clear communication and consistent updates ensured that residents understood every effort was being made to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.
Close coordination with the City, including By-Law, Fire Services, and Engineering, was instrumental in navigating the logistical and regulatory aspects of the response. Open communication and teamwork made all the difference in overcoming these challenges.
The Role of Teamwork in Success
Collaboration within the team was crucial. This was a 24/7 effort, requiring constant communication, clear decision-making, and strategic delegation. Team members kept each other motivated, problem-solved in real-time, and ensured trades had what they needed to work efficiently.
Everyone stepped up, took initiative, and remained adaptable. That level of trust and commitment to the mission was essential to the project's success.
A Key Moment of Teamwork in Action
On Sunday night, the client notified ARS/Global Emergency Management of the emergency. The response was immediate, with leadership and coordination ensuring a seamless transition between team members. Danny took the lead through the night alongside Orlando Martinez. James arrived at 1:30 AM and worked until morning, with Rudy stepping in at 7:30 AM before heading to another site. Tristan then took over, and this rotation continued seamlessly. No matter the time of day, a team member was always ready to step up and take charge.
The Most Rewarding Part of the Project
Restoring water to nearly 4,000 residents was incredibly rewarding. Despite all the obstacles, the goal was met, the client was satisfied, and ARS/Global Emergency Management reinforced its reputation for handling large-scale emergencies. Playing a part in bringing relief to so many people made all the effort worth it.
Recognizing Key Contributions
Several team members went above and beyond during this project. Orlando Martinez and James Macleod were on the front lines, responding without hesitation. Maria Ruz and Steven Davis worked tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring the team had what was needed at every stage. Their ability to facilitate solutions in real-time was invaluable.
One Word to Describe the Project
Arduous. This project was physically and mentally demanding, requiring around-the-clock effort for four days straight. But through teamwork, innovative problem-solving, and sheer determination, solutions were found, the client was satisfied, and water was restored to thousands of residents.
The Large Loss Team’s dedication exemplifies the core values of ARS/Global Emergency Management—Trust, Integrity, Exceeding Expectations, and Teamwork. Their unwavering commitment in the face of adversity is what makes our team exceptional. Thank you to everyone involved for your hard work and perseverance!
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