What is a cross-connection?
Simply put, a cross connection is an actual, or potential interconnection between our potable water system and anything that is not potable water. These could be interconnections with private wells or springs, water storage tanks, swimming pools, irrigation systems, etc. The danger is that unsafe water (or other fluids) will backflow into our drinking water. Here are a couple of examples:
Example 1: My pond is your tap water. A homeowner puts the end of a garden hose in their fish pond to add water. However, a broken pipe up the street causes the water pressure to drop and water from the pond is siphoned up through the hose and into our drinking water.
Example 2: Fiery Hydrants. A fire hydrant is connected with a hose to an old propane tank to purge the last bit of gas from it before it is removed. But the pressure in the tank is greater than the water pressure and propane enters the water line, contaminating the water and setting houses on fire. Yes – this actually happened!
How can we prevent cross-connection accidents ?
We are following the State of California’s rules and recommendations to implement a cross-connection control program. This program includes surveys of the system to find cross-connections, installation of backflow prevention devices, and regular inspections.
Your should have already received a copy of our ordinance that institutes a cross-connection control program. You can also download a pdf copy here