The Suffolk County Water Authority has taken steps to ensure its customers that their water supply will remain safe and readily available even if the looming Hurricane Irene makes landfall on or near Suffolk County this weekend.
SCWA has bolstered its pump stations with approximately 100 generators that will provide a reserve power supply by automatically activating in the event of a power failure. SCWA has also made arrangements with fuel suppliers to make deliveries to these generators as a top priority.
Additionally, the Authority has prepared emergency water tanks to provide fresh water at shelters whenever possible; arranged to keep additional staff on overtime after shifts if necessary to minimize the impact of employees having difficulty getting to work; positioned a fleet of 4x4 vehicles in key areas to help SCWA employees get to work; and fully stocked chemicals and fuel levels to ensure ample supplies will be available during and after the storm.
“We have a highly-skilled staff that is ready and able to handle a wide range of situations that may develop as a result of the storm,” said SCWA Chairman James F. Gaughran. “We want our customers to know that we are confident that whatever other challenges may arise over the weekend, their water supply should remain intact.”
“Since early this week, we have met regularly with key personnel to prepare for the different scenarios we may encounter,” said Chief Executive Officer Jeff Szabo. “And our customers should know that, as always, we will have staff on hand around the clock to answer their questions or address any issues that arise in regard to the storm.”
The Suffolk County Water Authority is an independent public-benefit corporation operating under the authority of the Public Authorities Law of the State of New York. Serving approximately 1.2 million Suffolk County residents, the Authority operates without taxing power on a not-for-profit basis.