September is National Preparedness Month. This month brings awareness to the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. We Floridians are experiencing the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season. It is vital that you are water-prepared for a storm event.
Having Enough Water
It is essential to be prepared for a storm event. You may be unable to leave your home and water services may be impacted. Before the hurricane arrives, make sure you have water for drinking, cooking, brushing your teeth and washing dishes. You should have one gallon of drinking water per person daily (including pets) for at least three days. You will also need water for bathing, flushing toilets, or cleaning. Fill your bathtub with water for non-potable uses like bathing and flushing toilets. Make sure the bathtub has no leaks before filling it. You can also fill a new garbage can, coolers, or any large clean container with water.
Before a storm, remember to turn off your irrigation system. Your grass and plants will have plenty of water from the rain. Having your irrigation system running would be wasteful and delay flood waters from receding.
Waiting on Wastewater
Heavy rains and storm events can impact sewer systems. Sewer pump stations may not be working due to storm damage or working at total capacity due to all the stormwater. There’s an easy way you can help reduce flooding and sewer overflows. All you have to do is wait! During heavy rainstorms, delay using your washing machine, showers, sinks and toilets until the storm passes. By waiting, you make it easier for the sewers to do their job while simultaneously protecting our environment. Also, for any water you may have stored in preparation, please wait until the storm's effects have passed before disposing of it down the drains.
Flooding
When it comes to flooding, never drive, walk, or play through flooded areas. It may seem tempting to splash in the puddles after a storm, but it will seem less appealing once you realize that those pools may have backed up sewer water due to an overflow.
Stay Up to Date
Ensure you have a reliable source of information that provides updates regarding the storm. Knowing if you have been placed under a precautionary boil water advisory is essential. Toho notifies customers through advisories posted to our News and Alerts section on tohowater.com. Stay safe and up to date this hurricane season.
