HAZARD, Ky. (WYMT) – As temperatures approach freezing this weekend, city officials are urging people to prepare for the cold and protect their pipes from freezing and bursting.
City Manager Tony Eversol highlighted the challenges presented by the city's aging water system but assured residents that ongoing improvements are making a difference.
“Our factory was built around 1950. So we worked really hard and stayed diligent and tried to replace as much as we could. “Right now we are implementing over $75 million in new water projects,” Eversol said. “Every winter brings less breakage. That’s what we’re going for, that’s what we’re aiming for.”
To minimize the risk of frozen pipes, Eversol recommended residents take preventive measures.
“Make sure [your pipe] “If something is buried, make sure it has heat tape on it,” he said. “If your meter isn't buried deep, put straw or whatever in there, but make sure the water doesn't run. “It all hurts.”
Eversol also reminded residents to quickly report any problems to the city's 24-hour leak line and assured them that maintenance crews were ready to respond.
“Our maintenance teams are always on the move,” he explained. “We have crews on standby. We have teams that work on weekends. We have crews working in the evenings and we have a great bunch that are really trying to get the leak fixed as quickly as possible.”
But he asked the city to be patient as it continues its work to replace old infrastructure, a process that takes years.
“When we submit a water project after it has gone through the design phase, engineering and bidding process, sometimes it can take three or four years,” Eversol said. “A lot of times it would cost us an extra million dollars by the time we actually put the project out to bid, but just be patient. We’re doing a lot, we have replacements and it’s getting better.”
Dustin Jordan, science and operations officer for the National Weather Service in Jackson, emphasized the importance of preparation. He noted that exposed or poorly insulated pipes, particularly in manufactured homes, are more susceptible to frost.
“As we begin to drop significantly below freezing, particularly overnight minimum temperatures, locations that may have more exposed pipes should take precautions to protect those pipes,” Jordan said.
He also urged residents to check on their neighbors and ensure vulnerable populations have what they need to stay safe during the cold snap.
“It’s about taking care of the people around you and being prepared,” Jordan said.
City officials advise residents to report leaks or burst pipes immediately by contacting the city's leak line or water department. The 24 hour telephone number for the plant is 1-606-436-2221.
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