For Immediate Release

Date: Aug. 12, 2004
Contact  Jenny Hagan
(843) 727-7146

Charleston Water System urges customers to prepare for severe weather

(Thursday, August 12, 2004)—In anticipation of severe weather as a result of tropical storm Bonnie and Hurricane Charley, the Charleston Water System is advising customers to take the following preparations:

• Make sure you have an adequate supply of drinking water. Charleston Water System recommends one gallon of water per person per day (don't forget pets). Store water in clean jugs or buy bottled water.

• In the hours before the storm makes landfall, fill bathtubs with water for non-drinking uses (such as washing dishes, clothes, etc.).

• If you plan to leave your home, turn off the water to your home at the meter shut-off valve and turn off the electrical circuit breaker to your hot water heater.

In the event of an extended loss of power, Charleston Water System's Hanahan Water Treatment Plant can operate indefinitely on back-up power generators, and will continue to treat water; however strong winds may uproot trees, which could break water lines and potentially disrupt water service.   To report emergency conditions, please contact Charleston Water System Customer Service at 727-6800.   For more information, please visit Charleston Water System on the web at www.charlestonCharleston Water System.com.

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