Residents Asked to Reduce Water Use

Residents and businesses in Beaumont are urged to reduce all non-essential water use immediately.

Heavy rainfall in the past 24 hours has pushed Beaumont’s wastewater system to capacity, with localized flooding and backups reported in some neighbourhoods. With more rain expected through the weekend and Monday, the City is asking people to cut back on their water use to ease pressure on the system.

If pressure on the wastewater system continues, backups will occur in other parts of the city.

Residents can take the following actions Sunday and through Monday to allow the wastewater system to catch up on the volume of water:

• Hold off on laundry and dishwashing
• Take short showers and limit baths
• Avoid flushing toilets
• Don’t run the water while brushing your teeth or shaving
• Eliminate any other non-essential water use

With the heavy rainfall, every reduction in water use helps reduce the risk of flooding and backups.

If your basement is flooding:

• Stop using water in your home right away (toilets, showers, sinks, laundry, dishwasher, etc.).
• Move valuables away from the affected area if it’s safe to do so.
• Call your insurance company right away.
• Avoid contact with water in the basement.

City crews are actively monitoring the city’s wastewater system and the community’s safety. Residents are advised to avoid driving or walking in areas where manhole covers have become dislodged or there is evidence of flooding. During heavy rain, manhole covers can become dislodged due to increased water and air pressure within the sewer and stormwater system.

Updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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Media contact:

Mike Berezowsky
Director, Communications & Information Technology Services
780-243-0458
mike.berezowsky@beaumont.ab.ca