BUFFALO, NY – With winter weather right around the corner, the Buffalo Sewer Authority (BSA) is sharing several tips with homeowners and residents to prepare for inclement weather and freezing temperatures.
“Our crews are held to the highest standard in terms of the service provided to the residents of the city of Buffalo, the men and women working on our infrastructure endure harsh winter climates unlike any in the country, making it essential for us to assist them in emergencies,” said Oluwole (OJ) McFoy, P.E., Buffalo Sewer Authority CEO and General Manager. “We are providing some helpful tips for residents that will allow city personnel to fulfill their duties at a moment’s notice whenever called into action.”
To prepare your home and outdoor surroundings, the Buffalo Sewer Authority recommends the following:
- Remove snow accumulation that may build up in front of fire hydrants in front of or around your property. In the event of a fire, it is critically important that Buffalo Fire Department personnel have access to a hydrant.
- Prevent leaves and debris buildup around receiver-storm drains to prevent street flooding that can lead to ice buildup.
- Make fresh air vents accessible for BSA crews in case of sewer-related emergencies. Install a small brightly colored flag or some other marking to indicate the location of the vent.
- Know the location of your main water line shut-off valve. If you encounter debris coming in from drains, persistent odor, or overflow from drains or toilets you may be experiencing sewer overflow.
- If your sewer backs up, turn off your water if you’re experiencing any signs of sewage overflow or backup. Contact Buffalo Sewer Authority immediately at 716-851-4664 or at 311.
- Schedule routine sewer inspections. Contact your local plumbing technician to make sure your pipes are running efficiently.
“We appreciate the consideration by our customers in taking the time to assist our hard-working crews on these important safety matters,” McFoy continued. “Taking these actions also protects homeowners’ properties and surrounding streets and infrastructure.”
McFoy noted that taking these actions also will help mitigate combined sewer overflows during wet weather, especially during times of melting snow.
To combat these occurrences, BSA recently launched the Queen City Clean Waters initiative which will invest over $1 billion over the next 15 years in infrastructure projects as part of Buffalo Sewer’s long term control plan to reduce the impacts of combined sewer overflows.