Broken Water Pipe Fails To Dampen Summit Vista Residents’ Spirits

At about midnight on January 3, 2019, residents of Summit Vista in Taylorsville, Utah, were surprised by an impromptu hot chocolate party held around the fireplace in the community clubhouse. The occasion: a burst sprinkler pipe in the attic of the Red Pine Ridge residence building that triggered the fire alarm and immediate response from the local fire department.

While water only impacted about 10 apartment homes in total, fire crews worked closely with on-site personnel and security to gather about 90 residents together in one of the main common areas while inspections were conducted to ensure safety.

“There’s never a good time to have a water pipe burst,” commented Mark Erickson, “but our residents and staff, as well as the fire chief and firefighters, all handled the difficult situation extremely well.”

In fact, many made the best of the situation by enjoying a little unconventional social time as members of the culinary team served hot chocolate, coffee, and cookies to residents while they waited to return to their homes.

“There wasn’t one resident who complained,” shared fellow resident Geri McConagahy. “The Summit Vista staff was incredible. Everything they promised, they did. I feel lucky to live in a community that cares so much for each of us.”

Within the hour, a water remediation service arrived onsite to mitigate any water damage while the fire department worked to repair the burst pipes. Once the repair was completed and systems back up and running, residents were welcomed back to their homes, while those in affected areas were provided alternative accommodations until damages could be fixed.

“In spite of the circumstances, we had a great time and were well taken care of by the Summit Vista employees,” commented resident Terry Seftel. “We had food, friends, and an inviting fire to gather around in the clubhouse living room.”

As things were winding down and people were returning to their apartment homes, you could even hear residents thank Mark and other members of the Summit Vista team for “the impromptu pajama party.”

“The true test of an exceptional community is not just what they say, but how they respond in an emergency,” stated Gina Rieke, Summit Vista resident. “Tonight, the Summit Vista team demonstrated they truly are exceptional.”