United Water Offers Blizzard Tips

From United Water

WEST NYACK, NY, January 26, 2015 – United Water is preparing for a winter storm that could bring significant snow and frigid temperatures to the region.

“Our priority is to keep the water flowing, despite any conditions that may arise. We have been carefully monitoring the weather and taking necessary action to protect the integrity of our facilities and water supplies,” said Chris Graziano, general manager, United Water New York Division. “Our emergency crews remain on standby 24 hours a day to respond to any situation that may occur.”

Preparations include testing backup generators, ensuring that water storage facilities are full and having an extra supply of water treatment chemicals on hand. In addition, personnel will be available around the clock.

Personal Emergency Preparedness

Graziano recommended that customers check their personal emergency preparedness plans. “While we work hard to maintain service, we encourage our customers to store extra tap water in food-grade storage containers,” he said. Before filling containers with drinking water, clean them thoroughly with soap and water and rinse with clean water. Seal the containers with the original tops. Place a “drinking water” label on the containers and include a storage date. Be careful not to store containers in direct sunlight or in areas near toxic substances such as gasoline or chemicals. Helpful emergency preparedness tips are available at www.fema.gov

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Homeowners can also take steps to avoid frozen pipes and water meters on their properties during this severe cold weather. It is extremely important to insulate household piping to protect against cold drafts in unheated spaces. Even a small draft can cause freezing. It’s the homeowner’s responsibility to protect all piping inside the property lines—as well as the water meter—from frost damage. Water meters located in unheated cabinets, garages and basements can be wrapped in insulating materials or even newspapers as a temporary measure. Pipes exposed to severe temperatures can be wrapped with heating tape which can be purchased at most hardware stores. Freezing temperatures can destroy a meter, which would have to be replaced at the customer’s expense.

Thaw Frozen Pipes

Partial water service in a home indicates that the freeze is located in a pipe somewhere in the house. A complete lack of water service can be the result of a frozen water meter or a frozen pipe leading from the water main in the street to the house. A meter or water pipe that feels extremely cold is most likely frozen.

It’s important to clear frozen blockages as soon as possible to minimize the danger of pipes bursting. The resulting leak could cause serious property damage. Thaw pipes and meters by applying hot air from a hair dryer, electric heater, or by using a heating pad. Open a water valve slightly so that it will be apparent when thawing has occurred. Under no circumstances should hot water or a blow torch be used on a frozen pipe or water meter. The intense heat could cause the very break the customer is trying to prevent, and a blow torch presents a serious safety hazard.

Keep Fire Hydrants Clear

When water is needed to battle a fire, it is imperative that firefighters locate a fire hydrant immediately. Residents can assist in this important effort by clearing snow away from hydrants near their property. This will enable the fire department to have quick access to connections in an emergency.

For More Information

United Water New York customers can get updated information by calling 845-623-1500 or by visitingwww.unitedwater.com/uwny