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01/19/2019 06:25 AMJan. 18, 2019– In response to the significant winter weather event forecast for this weekend, the South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (RWA) is reminding customers to stay safe before, during and after the storm. While no water issues are expected, RWA customers are encouraged to sign up for the RWA's reverse-911 system, CodeRED, which is used throughout the year to distribute alerts about drinking water service, when warranted.
"The RWA prepares year-round for storms, and we encourage our customers to be ready, too," said Beth Nesteriak, RWA's Senior Vice President of Operations and Business Strategy. "While storms like the one predicted for this weekend do not typically cause disruption to our water delivery system, we are fully prepared and on standby in the event of any unforeseen problems."
"All of our water treatment and distribution facilities are equipped with backup generators so we can continue to operate the pumps that maintain water pressure in the pipes when regular electrical power is lost," Nesteriak said. "Additionally, all RWA vehicles are fueled and ready to use in response to any issue that may occur over the course of the storm."
RWA customers are encouraged to
sign up for CodeRED, the reverse-911 system used by the RWA throughout the year to distribute alerts of any water emergencies. Customers already enrolled in CodeRED should check to make sure their contact information is up-to-date. RWA customers can report a water system emergency 24/7 by calling 203-562-4020.
Residents and businesses are also encouraged to protect their pipes from freezing in the frigid temperatures. Frigid air and sub-freezing temperatures can cause water pipes in vulnerable areas of buildings to freeze and burst, resulting in costly damage and expensive repairs. The RWA provides tips on its
website that homeowners can use to prevent pipe freeze. Anyone concerned that their pipes have frozen should immediately turn the water off at the main water shut-off valve and then contact a licensed plumber to thaw the frozen pipes, assess damage and make any necessary repairs. Never use hot water, a torch or any open flame to thaw a frozen pipe or water meter.
Although the RWA does everything it can to ensure its customers have reliable, high-quality drinking water before, during and after a storm, RWA officials say it is always a good idea to bottle tap water and store it in advance of a major storm. The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends storing a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. Families with pets should make sure they store enough water for their animal's consumption as well.
About the Regional Water Authority
The South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority (RWA) is a nonprofit corporation that delivers water for life by providing high-quality water and services to almost 430,000 people in 15 cities and towns throughout Greater New Haven. As a conscious business, the RWA acts as a responsible steward of the environment by protecting the more than 27,000 acres of watershed land it owns and promoting sustainable practices. Our more than 270 employees work toward our vision of being an innovative water utility that sustains life, strengthens communities and protects natural resources for future generations. For more information on the RWA, please visit www.rwater.com.