06/08/2024
We continue to repair a large water main break in the Bowness and Montgomery area. This critical water transmission line has severely impacted the supply in Calgary’s reservoirs and the ability to move water across the city.
Yesterday Calgary saw a significant reduction in water use until the afternoon; however, water use greatly increased around the time people got home from work. We are currently using more water than it can produce.
If Calgarians do not reduce our water use, we are at risk of running out. We're asking Calgarians to save water for the next few days while the work gets completed by using 25% less water than yesterday. This could mean actions like shaving a few minutes off your shower, skipping a few flushes, and holding off on a load of laundry.
Our crews are still working around the clock and we are hopeful that we’ll be able to see the feeder main and determine the cause of the break.
➡️ BOIL ADVISORY AND WATER WAGONS
The Boil Water Advisory remains in place for all residents and businesses in Bowness. For more information, visit calgary.ca/water/drinking-water/boil-water-advisory-for-bowness.
➡️ WATER RESTRICTIONS FOR RESIDENCES
Please continue:
• Delaying dishwasher and washing machine use
• Limiting shower times and keeping baths shallow
• Turning off humidifiers and ice machine
• Turning off water taps when not in use
• Reducing water use in any other way that you safely can
Calgarians are encouraged to use water from rain barrels for outdoor watering. Water from rain barrels is not safe to use on growing produce.
Community Standards will be taking an education first approach with both businesses and residences while Stage 4 water restrictions remain in place. Restrictions include no watering of lawns, gardens, trees and shrubs. Washing outdoors is also restricted including cars, windows, exterior building surfaces, sidewalks, driveways or walkways.
More information on Stage 4 restrictions can be found on https://www.calgary.ca/water/drought/outdoor-water-restrictions.html
Non-compliance can result in fines starting at $3,000.
➡️ FIRE BAN AND FIRE SAFETY
A city-wide fire ban remains in effect by The Calgary Fire Department (CFD) prohibiting the use of fire pits, recreational campfires, outdoor fireplaces and other open flame devices that burn solid fuels barbecues and stoves (charcoal briquettes or wood).
The fire ban is in effect until further notice until water supply issues are no longer deemed a risk to health and safety. Fines for violating a fire ban range from $500 to $5,000.
For more information on Calgary fire bans and fire safety advisories, visit calgary.ca/firebans or contact 311. Remember to always call 9-1-1 to report a fire.
*The image below showcases a typical water main compared to the water main currently affected.