Hingham Fire Chief Steve Murphy reminds Weir River Water System users that the Mandatory Water Ban, now in effect for Hingham, Hull, and North Cohasset, is critical to protecting potable water for public health and water levels to provide fire safety.
Lawn irrigation demand and failure to comply with restrictions is draining town storage tanks faster than we can fill them. The resulting downward trend – also experienced in other South Shore communities – places at risk our ability to provide water for drinking and fighting fires. Chief Murphy stresses the importance of complying with this mandatory ban.
“I cannot overstate how serious the situation is,” said Chief Murphy. “Today, the Turkey Hill water tank is at a fraction of its target fill level. A main break or a fire could create a major challenge if tank levels continue to fall. If this trend continues, we may be unable to ensure people have water they need – or stop a fire from spreading.”
All non-essential outdoor watering is prohibited until further notice. Residents and businesses must immediately shut off all automatic and manual irrigation systems to preserve our water supply during this critical period. The Mandatory Water Ban prohibits all non-essential outdoor usage, including:
· Irrigation using automatic sprinklers or soaker hoses
· Washing vehicles, exterior building surfaces, parking lots, driveways, and sidewalks
· Filling swimming pools
Any irrigation system found operating during this restriction will result in enforcement action, including fines, service shutoff, and costs of terminating and restoring service. Starting Tuesday, June 16 crews will begin shutoff to customers still in violation after two notices.
For more information, visit www.weirriverwater.org or call 877-253-6665.