Buncombe County water plants boost staffing as winter storm moves in

BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. (WLOS) — As a winter storm moves into western North Carolina, officials say staffing has been increased at all three water treatment plants and that every employee is on call.

All 37 water storage tanks throughout the distribution system are being topped off and will remain full for the duration of the storm.

EMERGENCY LEADERS PREPARE FOR WINTER STORM AS ICE THREATENS POWER AND COMMUNICATION

All pump stations are equipped with emergency generators in case of a power outage.

Customers are also encouraged to take precautions to prevent plumbing emergencies.

“This is probably the most important one. It’s been mentioned a couple of times already. Please drip your pipes. That is the best way to prevent a water pipe from busting. If that water is moving through that pipe even a little bit, the chances that it busts due to cold weather go way, way down,” said Clay Chandler, the Public Information Officer in the City of Asheville.

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Officials also suggest wrapping exposed pipes with insulation or heat tape, disconnecting outdoor water hoses, and always keeping the thermostat set above 55 degrees.

Additionally, if water becomes frozen, officials say that customer service representatives employed by the city or an after-hours answering service will be available around the clock by calling 828-251-1122.