Roslyn Water District Reassures Public Water Supply is Unaffected by Coronavirus
The Roslyn Water District’s Board of Commissioners would like to reassure the public that the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has no impact on the public’s drinking water supply. In light of the World Health Organization declaring the coronavirus outbreak a global pandemic and increasing local concern, District residents can rest assured that the delivery and quality of their water will remain unaffected.New York State regulations require all Long Island public water suppliers to routinely disinfect the water supply and the WHO has stated that these standard practices are an effective method of inactivating the COVID-19 virus.
“The Coronavirus is an airborne disease meaning it is not transmitted through water,” stated Chairman Michael J Kosinski. “The water delivered to Long Islander’s homes’ will not stop flowing and its quality is not impacted. There is no need to be stockpiling bottled water. The only aspects of our operations that have changed based on this situation are temporary policy changes that limit access to staff members and related customer-service facilities in an effort to keep our employees, and residents, safe.”
Every water supplier is required by their governing health departments to have an emergency plan for a pandemic situation. These plans are meant to provide clear guidance for the operations and maintenance of water pumping and treatment facilities for the types of situations currently occurring. The Roslyn Water District is going above and beyond to ensure the safety of our residents and employees by implementing policies designed to minimize personal contact as much as possible. “The District is acting responsibly and appropriately to reduce the spread of the Coronavirus,” stated Chairman Michael J. Kosinski. “We ask members of the public to follow the advice from public health entities to ensure their safety.”
The Roslyn Water District as well as water providers throughout Long Island have started implementing policies that:
Close public-facing facilities such as administrative offices
Prohibit the acceptance of in-person and cash payments.
Prohibit employees from entering the homes of residents except for emergency situations
Educate staff members on proper hygiene as well as disinfection protocols.
Rearrange staff shifts to minimize contact with one another
Residents interested in learning more about Coronavirus prevention and preparation are encouraged to reach out to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and/or the Nassau County Health Department.
