NYACK, NY — SUEZ announced today that it is prepared to protect facilities and infrastructure that are vital to keeping customers well supplied during severe weather conditions, especially during hurricane season which typically begins in June and lasts through November. According to the National Weather Service, this timeframe is most favorable for strong storm or tropical-like climate development in our areas.
“Our teams closely monitor the weather and will be prepared to make any adjustments necessary to maintain residents’ water quality and service, the integrity of our water treatment plants and supply dams and precious water supplies,” said Chris Graziano, Vice President and General Manager of SUEZ Operations in New York. “When the National Weather Service predicts a storm, our goal is to respond as quickly as possible to all emergency situations that may arise, rapidly restore any disrupted services and keep the water flowing.”
SUEZ serves more than 500,000 customers in Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Orange and Tioga counties.
According to Graziano, particular measures include testing backup generators, ensuring that water storage facilities are full and maintaining an extra supply of water treatment compounds. Company officials also work closely with local emergency response teams to coordinate emergency preparation and response activities.
“Many local agencies and organizations team together with SUEZ to prepare for hurricanes and other severe storms,” said Graziano. “We also urge our customers to be weather ready by checking personal emergency preparedness plans now, before an emergency strikes,” he added.
SUEZ recommends customers protect their property and ensure they have emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries and food before an emergency arises.
“While SUEZ will always do its best to maintain service during an emergency, we encourage our customers to store extra tap water in clean, food-grade storage containers,” said Graziano.
Before containers are filled with drinking water, they should be cleaned thoroughly with soap and water, then rinsed with clean water and sealed with original tops. Place a “drinking water” label on the containers and include a storage date. Be careful not to store containers in direct sunlight or in areas near toxic substances such as gasoline or chemicals. Additional, helpful emergency preparedness tips are available at http://www.fema.gov/.
If an emergency action plan is activated, customers can obtain updated information by calling 877-426-8969, visiting mysuezwater.com or by following SUEZ Water New York social media channels on Facebook and Twitter.