Canton Still Dealing With Irene-Related Issues

As the town scrambles to clean up after Irene, emergency crews are still dealing with several issues.

On Memorial Field on Powder Mill Road, which was heavily flooded during the storm, the town of Canton Volunteer Fire and EMS Department responded to a reported propane leak this morning. Shortly before 1 p.m., firefighters had cleared the scene and were back to work on other water-related issues, pumping water out of numerous basements, including some on Torrington Avenue, Powder Mill Road and several in North Canton.

Some portions of roads also remain closed, including Torrington Avenue between Erickson Drive and Town Bridge Road, where several trees are down, including some on electrical wires.

In addition, the town was dealing with a damaged bridge on Shagbark Lane. The storm blew out the roadway and town officials now believe a damaged abutment have made it unsafe to drive over.

Although a private lane, the town was looking to at least initially repair an area immediately before the bridge so town vehicles could at least get that far in the event of an emergency.

"It think it's important, we at least provide emergency access," First Selectman Richard Barlow said.

As other residents deal with downed limbs and some with flooded homes, the town has decided to open the transfer station, which is normally closed Mondays.

Although the fire department had to closed Powder Mill Road this morning, Ramp Road is now open so people can access the station until 3:30 p.m.

This week, the town is allowing residents to dispose - free of charge - storm related bulky waste and brush, Barlow said.

A sticker or proof of residency is required.

Also Monday morning, the fire department continued evaluating potentially flooded homes and other issues in addition to responding to the propane situation.

It's been a busy storm for firefighters, who reported to their respective fire stations Saturday night and began responding to calls around 4 a.m. Sunday.

Public Works crews came in about 3 a.m. and worked with fiefighters, EMTs and police on storm-related emergencies.

Storm related problems included downed wires and trees, flooding, a mattress fire and water over roadways.

"I think the Fire and EMS, Police and Public Works departments did an outstanding job and showed their level of expertise — particularly the fire and ems staff, which are volunteers," Barlow said.

Power outage numbers continue to fluctuate based on reporting but as of 11:30, Connecticut Light and Power reported 609 or 12 percent of its 4,929 customers in Canton without power.