WSSC ISSUES MANDATORY WATER RESTRICTIONS

WSSC ISSUES MANDATORY WATER RESTRICTIONS  FOR ALL WSSC CUSTOMERS (Commercial & Residential) Severe Storms Cause Loss of Power to Plants and Other Facilities

Laurel –June 30, 2012: The Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission (WSSC) is issuing mandatory water restrictions for all Montgomery and Prince George’s County customers, residential and commercial. Last night’s severe storms knocked out power to WSSC’s two water filtration plants and other facilities. Crews from BG&E and PEPCO are working to restore power. The restrictions are mandatory to preserve fire fighting capabilities and to make the water supply last while repairs are underway. There is no estimated time for when the plants will be online and producing water again, but both power companies have assured us that WSSC is one of their highest priorities. Due to extremely high temperatures, water consumption has been at its highest this year. And, normally we would use the overnight hours to refill the system. But, last night’s storms prevented that from occurring. Until repairs are complete, it is imperative that all business and residential customers restrict their water use. If customers do not reduce their water use significantly, it may be necessary to issue a Boil Water Advisory that would affect all of our customers. Customers need to: Stop all outside water use – no watering lawns, shrubs, flowers; no washing cars, no topping off swimming pools Use water only as necessary – i.e., shorter showers and turn off faucets after washing hands Limit flushing toilets (do not flush after every use) Postpone using washing machines and dishwashers. These mandatory water restrictions apply to all WSSC customers, commercial and residential, in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties. WSSC will provide updates through the local media and through www.wsscwater.com until mandatory restrictions are no longer necessary.