Water Systems for Small Communities

A Puzzle Guide for Local Officials
Bulletin 910

Water System Emergency Contingency Plan

Jeff Morrison, Assistant Director, Operator Training Committee of Ohio
Karen Mancl, Professor Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering, The Ohio State University

Customers expect uninterrupted water service. Unfortunately, uncontrolled events can threaten a water system. It is important to anticipate problems and establish action plans to avoid them to ensure that customers receive "fail-safe" service. In some cases problems are unavoidable. A system must be able to notify customers of an interruption in service and an estimate of how long it will last. Put plans in place to quickly resolve these types of water system emergencies.

Water systems in Ohio should be prepared for several types of problems. Some are natural, some are caused by people, and some are the result of equipment failure. Natural disasters that can affect Ohio communities are tornadoes, high winds, lightning strikes, floods, and drought. Interruptions in water service are sometimes caused by people from incidents like chemical spills, transportation accidents, power outages, vandalism, and even theft.

The U.S. Congress through the Safe Drinking Water Act requires states to adopt and implement a plan for the provision of safe drinking water in an emergency. Each public water system must adopt a plan that includes:

• communication to customers and regulators,
• alternate water sources, and
• inventories of equipment and materials.

The plan must also detail emergency procurement procedures for equipment, materials, and outside services and personnel assignments during emergencies.

Water systems can take six steps to prepare for emergencies.

1. Establish a chain-of-command.
2. Develop a dynamic plan document. Make sure all personnel have read it and know where it is filed. Post information out of the plan where it would be needed in an emergency. Update the plan every 6 months, especially contact names and phone numbers.
3. Talk to insurance providers about coverage for anticipated emergencies.
4. Establish an emergency contingency account, so cash is immediately available to correct problems.
5. Have necessary spare parts on hand.
6. Establish an emergency response support system.
• Nearby water systems are an invaluable resource in an emergency. They can not only provide water, but may also lend equipment, spare parts, and experienced personnel.
• Local businesses and industries may have resources that can help, such as emergency generators, tools, and skilled technicians.
• Suppliers can be difficult to reach on weekends or holidays. Plan to have after-hours contacts and standing accounts with even infrequently used suppliers.
• The National Guard has as its mission to restore order in an emergency. They have on hand equipment and trained personnel that can be called upon.

The best emergency contingency plan is one that is never put into practice. By thinking all likely emergency situations through, a water system may be able to avoid most emergency situations and be prepared to help their neighbors.