Don’t Let Winter Cause POB Hydrants to Hibernate!

As winter settles in, colder temperatures are here to stay as is the likelihood for a winter storm. The Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to remind residents about the importance of keeping fire hydrants around the Plainview-Old Bethpage community free of snow and other winter debris. By doing so, members of the POB community can assist first responders in emergency situations, and valuable time can be saved.

“As the colder temperatures set in, it’s essential to remind our residents and business owners about the importance of maintaining clear hydrants throughout the community this winter,” said PWD Chairman Marc Laykind. “Ensuring fire hydrants are kept clear at all times is crucial to ensure that the fire department can gain immediate access in the event of an emergency. It’s a quick and simple task that we can all do to assist emergency services in a meaningful way.”

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

“The availability of fire hydrants at all times is essential in emergency situations,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “During an emergency, every moment can be critical, and we cannot predict when or where a fire hydrant might be needed. As a community, it is our job to take precautions and to help our neighbors—this is a simple way to do just that.”

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.

“We encourage residents to be aware of where the nearest fire hydrant to your home is and take part in adopting a hydrant this winter,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “The District remains committed to the well-being of the POB community, and we will continue to raise awareness of initiatives that can benefit residents and emergency services. We thank those who have contributed their time to this worthy cause this winter.”

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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PWD Staff is Geared up and Ready to Tackle Any Pesky Breaks

With the winter season in full swing, the Plainview Water District (PWD) would like to once again remind residents that water main breaks are common across the region throughout the season. Nevertheless, residents and businesses should not worry as the District’s skilled staff is well-prepared and equipped to respond promptly to any emergency. Despite a several water main breaks occurring within the District this winter, service was efficiently restored to the affected areas in a timely manner. The PWD team is highly capable of addressing potential emergency situations rapidly, even in cases where nearby residents may not be aware of a water main break.

“It’s unfortunate, but it’s an unpredictable consequence of the climate in our region,” said PWD Commissioner Marc Laykind. “Given the freezing and thawing cycles we experience this time of year, it’s inevitable that some main breaks will occur. However, the PWD staff is well-versed in addressing these issues, having the necessary experience, equipment, and preparedness to respond promptly, working around the clock to resolve any such issues.”

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.

“The District’s response plan helps to ensure residents experience minimal interruptions to their water service when breaks occur,” said PWD Commissioner Andrew Bader. “We ask that if residents suspect a water main break or any water-related problem in your home or area, please do not hesitate to contact PWD and report the situation. By reporting any suspected or undetected breaks or issues, the District can take necessary measures to prevent service disruption or mitigate potentially severe leaks.”

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.

“When a water main break occurs, some residents or businesses may experience discolored water or a decrease in water pressure,” said PWD Commissioner Michael Chad. “Following a main break, residents are encouraged to monitor their water and contact the District with any questions they may have. PWD wants to ensure that the POB community is aware that we are always here to assist with any water-related issues or questions that may ever arise.”

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.