Tips and reminders shared ahead of National Backflow Prevention Day

National Backflow Prevention Day, observed on August 16th, highlights the critical need for backflow prevention and cross-connection control to protect our drinking water. Backflow occurs when contaminated water flows backward into our clean drinking water system – this can happen during pressure changes or water main breaks. Fortunately, this is preventable!

“With our community’s strong support, Norman has built robust water quality programs,” said Michele Loudenback, City of Norman Environmental & Sustainability Manager. “The new Cross-Connection Control program will take our efforts even further, strengthening water safety for all.”

WHAT TO KNOW:

City officials follow industry plumbing standards, install prevention devices where needed, and regularly test water quality. But the strongest protection happens when the City and residents work together.

Common contaminants that can enter your water through backflow include:

  • Fertilizers from sprinkler systems
  • Bacteria from hoses left in standing water or sinks
  • Chemicals from pools and hot tubs
  • Untreated water from wells or auxiliary supplies
  • Industrial chemicals from businesses

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

  • Install hose bibb vacuum breakers on outdoor faucets.
  • Avoid submerging a hose below the overflow level of pools, hot tubs or other containers – submerged hoses can act like straws.
  • Eliminate actual or potential cross-connections between potable and non-potable water – including irrigation wells.
  • Test backflow prevention assemblies annually if you are a business owner, and maintain appropriate assemblies.
  • Report suspected backflow incidents to the City immediately.

Your water supply is precious, and together, we can keep it clean and safe. In the coming weeks, the City of Norman will share details about the new Cross-Connection Control Program to help residents and businesses learn more about preventing backflow.

Questions? Contact the Division of Environmental & Sustainability at (405) 292-9731 or email backflow@normanok.gov

Learn more at https://www.abpa.org/ or https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2021-12/ds-toolbox-fact-sheets_ccc.pdf .

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