District Staff is Equipped to Quickly Respond and Repair Any Breaks

Plainview, N.Y.—The Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to remind residents that water main breaks occur more often during the winter months, but are a completely normal experience for this time of year. Fortunately, the District has a highly trained staff that is capable of quickly addressing these potentially emergency situations to a degree where nearby residents may not even know a break has occurred.

“Water main breaks are an unfortunate reality in any area that experiences extreme cold, and Long Island certainly qualifies,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “Thankfully, the Plainview Water District has an experienced staff who responds to breaks 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We are committed to solving any water-related issue that may arise, to quickly restore residents’ water service.”

As the case with all cold-weather climates, water main breaks are an unfortunate reality as they typically occur when there is movement in the soil surrounding the water pipes or a freeze/thawing condition. Water mains are installed below the frost line; however, when the soil shrinks or swells it places pressure on the pipes causing a break. Though the length of time to repair a leak varies from incident to incident depending on its severity and how quickly the leak can be located, PWD employees are trained to repair all types of breaks efficiently, quickly and safely.

“While the District has systems in place to learn about main breaks shortly after they may occur, there are situations where they are not easily detected,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “Anytime someone suspects there may be a water main break, or any other water-related issue in the community, they should never hesitate to contact us and report the situation.”

When water service is restored, residents may notice air in their pipes and the water may be discolored. The discoloration is not harmful, but can stain laundry. If you experience discolored water, let the cold water run from a faucet or tub at the closest area to your incoming service line for a few minutes or until it clears.

“Water main breaks may cause residents to experience a drop in water pressure or discolored water,” said PWD Commission Michael Chad. “Repairing these breaks is one of the most important things our staff does at PWD. Which is why we have dedicated crews to react quickly to each break, to ensure potential interruptions to residents’ water service are as minimal as possible.”

The Plainview Water District asks for residents’ help in reporting potential main breaks. Residents that notice areas of wetness along the curb, bubbling of water in the roadway or unexplainable icy conditions are encouraged to contact the Plainview Water District immediately at 516-931-6469.

If you have questions about preparing your home’s water system for the winter or general inquiries about your water service, please call 516-931-6469 or send an email to info@plainviewwater.org. Customers of the Plainview Water District are also encouraged to sign up to receive updates by filling out the form at www.plainviewwater.org or by following the Plainview Water District on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plainviewwater.

As seen in the Mid-Island Times January 26, 2023

Plainview, New York—The Plainview Water District (PWD) recently held its swearing-in ceremony to celebrate Commissioner Michael Chad’s election to serve on the Board of Commissioners for the next three years. Commissioner Chad, a long-time resident of Plainview, brings to the Plainview Water District a strong background in finance. As he enters his first term, Commissioner Chad will work alongside current commissioners Marc Laykind and Andrew Bader as well as the PWD’s staff to continue providing quality water and service to the residents of the POB community.

“I am truly humbled and thankful to have the support of the Plainview-Old Bethpage residents as I join the Plainview Water Districts Board of Commissioners,” said Commissioner Chad. “It will be an honor to serve on this Board and begin to work together to continue the District’s role as an industry leader here on Long Island.”

Commissioner Chad has been an accountant in private practice since 1988, after earning his BA in Accounting at the City University of New York’s Brooklyn College. His business expertise encompasses all aspects of general accounting, with a focus on corporate and personal income taxes. Commissioner Chad has also been a proud resident of Plainview since 1994, where he raised his two children and currently lives with his wife.

“Michael Chad is a proud member of this community, and we are fortunate to have his years of expertise in finance as we continue our mission of providing POB residents with the highest quality water possible,” said PWD Chairman Marc Laykind. “His background will make him a very effective member of the District’s Board of Commissioners, and we look forward to the insights and guidance he’ll provide throughout his term.”

Since 2014, Commissioner Chad has held several prominent roles in the Plainview-Old Bethpage Chamber of Commerce, initially, serving as the organization’s Treasurer and then on its Board of Directors. Commissioner Chad is also a long-time member of the Plainview Jewish Center, where he also serves on the Board of Directors of the Men’s Club.

If you have general inquiries about your water service, please call 516-931-6469 or send an email to info@plainviewwater.org. Customers of the Plainview Water District are also encouraged to sign up to receive District updates by visiting www.plainviewwater.org and also follow the Plainview Water District on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plainviewwater.

 Commissioner Michael Chad (left) sworn in as Plainview Water District Commissioner.

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As seen in the Bethpage Newsgram January 19, 2023

As seen in the Nassau Observer January 14, 2023

Plainview, N.Y.—Winter is here and so are colder temperatures for the next couple of months. The Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to remind residents about the importance of keeping fire hydrants throughout the Plainview-Old Bethpage community clear of snow and other winter debris. Hydrants that remain free of snow and ice can save first responders precious time when responding to an emergency situation.

“The colder temperatures are here and serve as a great reminder to our residents and business owners of the importance of ensuring hydrants throughout the community are kept clear this winter,” said PWD Chairman Marc Laykind. “Keeping fire hydrants clear at all times allows the fire department to have uncompromised access in the case of an emergency.”

Residents are encouraged to “adopt” a nearby hydrant so there is a dedicated person responsible in keeping it clear during a snowstorm as well as reporting any potential issues. Clearing three feet of snow around the hydrant will allow firefighters to not only identify their locations with ease, but also provide uninterrupted access during a potential emergency.

“The POB community’s safety is our top priority, which is why we ask residents to not overlook the importance of this simple task,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “We encourage residents to be aware of where the nearest fire hydrant to your home is and to do your part in helping keep our neighbors safe.”

The District is also asking its residents to consider providing assistance to any friends, family members, or neighbors who are not able to clear their own hydrants. Those who leave their homes for the winter season are asked to please notify a neighbor who can ensure a hydrant is still cleared in their absence.

“Emergencies can occur at any point, which is why this initiative is so important,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “We can never predict when a fire hydrant is going to be needed, so we must ensure they remain easily accessible for our fire department at all times. In the event of an emergency, every second counts and completing this simple task can save emergency responders precious moments.”

If you have questions about preparing your home’s water system for the winter or general inquiries about your water service, please call 516-931-6469 or send an email to info@plainviewwater.org. Customers of the Plainview Water District are also encouraged to sign up to receive updates by visiting www.plainviewwater.org. Follow the Plainview Water District on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plainviewwater.

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As seen in the Mid-Island Times January 5, 2023