Coliban Water urges customers to prepare for extreme heat
Coliban Water is encouraging central and northern Victorians to keep hydrated, be prepared, and act responsibly with precious water supplies as the region prepares for the first declared heatwave since 2014 and multiple days above 40 degrees.
Coliban Water Managing Director, Damian Wells, said his team was preparing for a spike in water over the next week, with customers set to use more water to stay hydrated, water gardens, fill swimming pools, run air conditioning units, and generally keep cool.
“Our team is prepared for the extreme conditions and the increased likelihood of power outages, high wind, and other events that may impact our water supply.
“We have back-up generators and other equipment on hand to ensure we can continue to deliver essential water supplies and sewage services, our incident management team is working closely with local emergency services, and we continue to monitor the network to identify potential issues early.
“It is likely customers in parts of our network may experience a drop in pressure during peak periods when everyone is using water at the same time.”
Mr Wells said people in the region should be prepared, but mindful of their water use.
“Make sure you, your family, and pets are adequately hydrated during hot weather. Check in on those around you, particularly the elderly, young children, and the vulnerable. It’s also smart to keep some additional drinking water on hand in case of an emergency and seek a place where you can keep cool, such as your home, a library, a community or shopping centre.
“Everyone should be following the Permanent Water Saving Rules, including using a hand-held hose with a trigger nozzle, using drippers and sprinklers only between 6pm and 10am, and setting washing machines, dishwashers and other appliances to run outside peak periods.
“We are asking our customers to limit non-essential water use until the worst of the heat has passed.”
Mr Wells also urged customers in fire-prone areas to be vigilant and prepared.
“While we prepare our water network for the fire season, a reliable water supply cannot be guaranteed during a bushfire emergency. People may experience low water pressure, a loss of water supply, or impacts to water quality.”
Coliban Water uses text messages, its website, and social media to inform customers if extreme weather conditions or a bushfire threat are likely to impact the water supply.
Customers can update their contact details at www.coliban.com.au or call Coliban Water on 1300 363 200.
During a heatwave you should stay informed by listening to emergency broadcasters and monitoring warnings. The latest updates and emergency warnings can be found at www.emergency.vic.gov.au. Call Triple Zero (000) in a life-threatening emergency. For severe weather related emergency assistance from the SES, phone 132 500.