With the exact track of Hurricane Sandy unknown but some impact on the District of Columbia likely, DC Water is preparing to protect its personnel and facilities this weekend and into next week.

The District’s drinking water treatment facilities – operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Washington Aqueduct – and the Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant are built to withstand the impact of a devastating storm. Loss of electricity at an individual home or multi-unit building does not have an impact on the delivery of drinking water.

“Our crews will be out preparing and responding during this entire event, for as long as it’s safe to be outside,” said DC Water General Manager George S. Hawkins. “We don’t anticipate any interruptions in service, but will use every outlet we have to get the word out if anything changes.”

As of Thursday, DC Water management and staff have been:
• Cleaning catch basins across the District, but especially in flood-prone areas such as Bloomingdale and LeDroit Park.
• Preparing to provide sandbags in Bloomingdale on Saturday.
• Placing water, sewer and fire hydrant crews, along with contractors and electricians, on standby for the duration of the storm.
• Mobilizing portable generators and crews in case stormwater or drinking water pumping stations lose power.
• Bringing in extra supplies and food for personnel who must stay at Blue Plains or a pumping station beyond an ordinary shift.

DC Water also offers the following preparation tips for customers:
• Check gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear of debris.
• Report clogged storm drains by calling (202) 612-3400.
• Fill containers of tap water and freeze them, providing extra cooling in the event of a power outage.

For even more information on preparing for a hurricane, please visit http://www.dcwater.com/education/preparedness.cfm