Gearing Up for Colder Weather

Checking our list and checking it twice, making sure everything’s just right. As we head into December, Louisville Water is ready for what’s coming down the pipe in terms of winter.

The list includes managing inventory and staffing needs, keeping up with fleet maintenance checks, winterizing fire hydrants, and mapping out plans for emergency procedures and contacts.

“It’s just a standard guide and checklist that we send to every department to make sure in case of emergency that we have all the i’s dotted and t’s crossed,” said Operations Supervisor Steve Witt.

While snow isn’t in the forecast just yet, it’s only a matter of time, and the company’s two salt trucks got a full inspection over the last few weeks.

“Both trucks will be routinely checked throughout the season to ensure they remain fully operational. We have our own salt bin on-site to fill these vehicles and that is monitored by the warehouse staff,” explained Supervisor of Fleet Operations Dave Chism.

Having our own salt trucks allows crews to continue working safely on locations where there may be icy roads due to weather or as a result of pooling water combined with freezing temperatures.

Our field crews work year-round rain or shine, sleet, snow, and cold! Safety is paramount. Employees complete online training courses, but it also comes down to the basics. Layering up and staying warm is key in winter, especially for our employees who work outside.

“We’ll make sure that everybody has the proper PPE (personal protective equipment), outer garments, everything,” Witt said.

Chism says they’ve inspected the stock of portable heaters if crews choose to pack one on their truck. Winter blues can often lead to longer shifts, so having a full gas tank is also important.

“Fuel levels are reported daily, but in the winter, we pay close attention to the forecast. If a weather event may pose a chance of delayed delivery, we will fill our tanks to ensure we have what we need,” Chism said.

And Louisville Water wants to make sure you have what you need: Louisville Pure Tap® flowing from your faucet. Here’s a checklist for you to help avoid frozen pipes this winter. We wish you a safe and hassle-free season!