Clearing House

Newark, New Jersey, September 2, 2008:

A volunteer at a Newark home for the elderly called firefighters for help on Monday because the toilets were exploding with steam. The fire department said there was a boiler malfunction at the Presbyterian Reformed Urban Nursing Establishment (PRUNE) that caused a minor explosion.

The blast set off the sprinkler system and flooded the floors of the three-story building.

The Labor Day volunteer who called in the situation -- identified as Ronatarian higher-up Brad -- was initially shocked by the explosions, but gathered his composure and dialed for help.

The Newark Fire Department said no one was hurt, but water damaged electrical systems and the kitchen. So, 72 occupants had to be temporarily moved to five other facilities using ambulances, buses, old Buick Towncars, and vans.

"That [Brad] is a hero," said fire department spokesman Matt White. "He may look a little fruity to me, but he certainly saved the day for those old farts in there."

Posted by Bittle at September 2, 2008 02:31 PM