Water Authority Press Release
Over the past several months, the Water Authority has seen an increase in waste oil and fuel being improperly disposed of, in and around our meter boxes. This poses a great risk to the public water supply system.
Hydrocarbons such as gasoline, diesel, motor oil and kerosine are all considered hazardous materials and should never be disposed of directly in or on the ground, in storm drains, waterways, or Water Authority meter boxes.
When hazardous materials are not appropriately stored or disposed of, there is a risk it can contaminate the public water supply or groundwater. If a meter box is exposed to these contaminants, the impacted area must be cleaned up to protect the water supply system. This takes substantial resources and results in high costs, which are the responsibility of the customer. To avoid this, the Authority strongly urges its customers to follow the guidelines of the Department of Environmental Health to store and dispose of hydrocarbons properly. All hydrocarbons should be stored in containers specially designed for this purpose; do not use empty water bottles, plastic containers or containers that are left open.
Hazardous waste must be separated from household waste and dropped off at the landfill in the designated storage area for hazardous materials so that it can be processed for proper disposal overseas. If you suspect your water supply may be contaminated with hydrocarbons, please contact the Water Authority immediately.
