With a temporary suspension of services, the swimming pool at the Sequim Aquatic Recreation Center was drained Nov. 13.

Clallam County Fire District 3 officials used a 5-inch hose and water tender to pump out about 120,000 gallons of water, leaving behind enough water to maintain the hydrostatic pressure and thus avoid damages. The water from the pool was sprayed onto a neighboring field.

The fire department turned the opportunity to help SARC officials temporarily close and winterize the center into a drill, Lt. Jeff Albers said.

The doors to SARC locked on Oct. 30 because of a lack of funds, but with community donations the swimming pool remained semi-operational for the Sequim High School girls swim team until the end of their season.