As fall begins, this time of year is when many will begin working outdoors in their yards to fertilize and plant in preparation for the cold of winter. The dangers associated with cross-connection of the public water supply is real, and Columbia Power & Water Systems is dedicated to informing the public about those dangers.
A garden hose submerged in any liquid, or attached to certain devices used to spray pesticides or herbicides can create a cross connection.
A cross-connection is any actual or potential link between a drinking water system and any source of non-potable (unsafe) water or other substances. Back siphonage occurs when a sudden drop in pressure in the water supply, like from a water main break, firefighting, or heavy water use, creates a vacuum that siphons non-potable substances back into the clean water pipes.
If chemicals, such as antifreeze, pesticides, or fertilizers used for winter prep, are connected to or submerged near a water outlet, back siphonage can pull them into the home's or even the public's drinking water system.
Devices are available to prevent this problem; however, the best solution is to always be careful how you use your garden hose.
Safety devices, such as hose connection "vacuum breakers" can be purchased inexpensively at any hardware store and do not require a plumber. Remember to buy a safety device for all your outdoor taps, including frost-free spigots. In addition to all irrigation systems, all non-residential and commercial establishments must be protected by a CPWS-approved backflow device.
Please help us provide a safe supply of water to all our customers. Remember, never place a garden hose in anything you would not want to drink.
For more information on cross connections and how to protect against them, please call CPWS at 931-388-4833, pick up a cross connection pamphlet in the CPWS lobby or visit the "Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention" section on our website at cpws.com.
About CPWS
Columbia Power & Water Systems (CPWS) is a public utility providing services to the citizens of Columbia and Maury County. CPWS does much more than just keep the lights on, water flowing, and internet buzzing. We believe local direction and controls put the community’s interests first above all else. Serving customers since 1939, Columbia Power & Water Systems operates under the Board of Public Utilities of the City of Columbia. For more about CPWS, visit cpws.com.