DETROIT – Crews in Southwest Detroit continued to assess the extent of the damage to homes caused by Monday’s water main break.
Currently, 400 homes are believed to have been impacted by flooding, a loss of power or water services.
As the first round of water testing is underway, a boil water advisory is in effect for 50 homes. However, if the samples come back clear of bacteria, the advisory could be lifted within 48 hours.
Bottles of water have been sent to impacted homes, and translators who’ve donated their services are walking alongside city inspectors to help initiate the repair process.
--> Recovery efforts from water main break in Detroit neighborhood will take about 6 weeks, says city
The Patton Reactional Center on Woodmere is open 24/7 through Friday (Feb. 21) for residents who are staying in their homes but need relief from the cold.
In the past 48 hours, they have received donations for thousands of winter coats, clothes, food, and personal items.
“There were some people who weren’t ready to leave their homes in the beginning and now it’s time, and they come here to warm up and see a friendly face,” said Crystal Perkins, who oversees the city’s General Services Department.
Perkins told Local 4 that the city’s help extends to pets. More than a dozen family pets are being cared for at the animal shelter while their owners decide on the next steps.
“For people whose cars are damaged, [if they] don’t want to leave home, we’re just going to bring it to them,” said Jessica Ramirez, who created the group Detroiters Helping Each Other 14 years ago.
They’ve been collecting supplies and setting up just a few blocks from the site where water main repairs are underway.
On Wednesday, they gave out 200 donated bagged lunches to residents and crews who are working tirelessly to help those impacted.
For those who have suffered damage, the city’s Water and Sewerage Department’s website for filing a claim has gone live and is available in English and Spanish.
The damage will be covered for those without insurance, and for those insured, you can have your deductible covered.