January 31, 2019
Section 10 of the Drinking Water Protection Actrequires all prescribed water supply systems to have a current Emergency Response and Contingency Plan (ERCP) available in case an emergency threatens the safety of the system drinking water and puts consumers at risk of waterborne diseases and other drinking water-related hazards.
The ERCP includes a list of all people and agencies that should be contacted in the event of any kind of emergency, including operators, repair personnel, alternate water suppliers, media, applicable government agencies, and the people who draw water from our system.
We have identified potential emergency situations that could make the water unsafe, prevent the flow of water, or pose a health risk, as well as the necessary steps for effectively dealing with each situation. These include:
- Pump/Distribution Failure/Source Running Dry
- Disinfection System Malfunction/Chlorinator Failure
- Suspect Microbiological Contamination
- Contamination of Source
- Broken Water Main
- Water Tower Failure
- Back Flow
- Electrical Brown-out/Black-out
- Major Earthquake/Structural Damage
- Fire in or Around FBWD Operations/Fire Fighting With Water System
Communication plays a key role in how well the FBWD will be able to respond during an emergency. We must be able to alert all users on our system as soon as possible, especially if there is any possible risk to their health from drinking water.
Our communication plan includes phoning and/or emailing all water users. Users who are not reached via these means will be contacted alternatively.
Local media can carry warnings to the public if the situation is serious enough.
Signs will be posted throughout the district in the event of a boil water advisory or if water is not suitable for drinking.
