False Fire Alarms Across Darien Caused By Power System Repairs

DARIEN, IL — Emergency personnel from Woodridge and Darien fire protection districts told Patch they haven't had a moment of peace this Friday morning, as power grid repairs have caused fire alarms to go off across the city.

Since a devastating EF-3 tornado touched down in areas of Woodridge, Naperville and Darien, electricity companies have been working to restore power to affected residents. In order to test the newly repaired power systems, officials from ComEd said they have to send out intermittent power surges, which can often cause fire alarms to go off or lights to flicker.

"This morning we've been on about eight calls," Battalion Chief Seth Dale said Friday. "And we've got to go to every single one, every time."

A fire alarm at the Walmart on the 2100 block of 75th Street was the eighth call of the day, with multiple units responding per protocol.

Dale said he anticipates a busy day and weekend for firefighters as they investigate each alarm.

"We'll be at each one," he said. "That's our job."