Ocean City Officials Advise On Reporting Water Leaks

OCEAN CITY, NJ — Ocean City officials are asking residents to report water leaks promptly as warming temperatures have led to an increase in burst pipes.

Mayor Jay Gillian stated that the Fire Department has responded to many properties with water flowing from frozen and burst pipes. Residents who see or suspect a water leak should report it immediately by calling Ocean City dispatch's non-emergency numbers at 609-399-9111 or 609-525-9122.

The Ocean City Fire Department (OCFD) and Police Department (OCPD) are working to minimize property damage from these leaks. Emergency personnel will assess the situation upon receiving a report and take actions to limit further damage when possible. Emergency calls for service will continue to take precedence over public service calls like water leaks.

When responding to water leak incidents, the OCFD will assess the affected area for safety hazards. Firefighters will attempt to locate and shut off a local interior water shutoff valve if accessible. They will also shut off the main water supply at the curb when necessary to stop active water flow, according to the mayor's notice.

Once water service has been shut off by the OCFD, residents must contact New Jersey American Water Company at 800-272-1325 to have service restored. Property owners can also contact New Jersey American Water directly at any time to report water service issues. The OCFD cannot restore or turn water service back on to a property.

The Fire Department will attempt to notify homeowners of water leaks or hazardous conditions discovered during an emergency response if contact information is available. However, homeowner contact information is not always accessible. Gillian encouraged residents to look out for their neighbors' properties due to the potential for many homes to be affected.