The City of Valdosta recognizes National Backflow Prevention Day
Today, the City of Valdosta proudly joins communities nationwide in recognizing National Backflow Prevention Day — a day dedicated to safeguarding one of our most precious resources: clean, safe drinking water.
Backflow prevention is more than a plumbing term — it’s a frontline defense in protecting our water supply from contamination. By ensuring that water only flows in the right direction, backflow devices keep harmful substances from entering our public water system through cross-connections.
What is a Cross-Connection Hazard?
A cross-connection is any actual or potential connection between the public water system and a source of contamination. These hazards can be found in many everyday places:
At Home:
- Garden hoses submerged in buckets, pools, or chemical sprayers
- Lawn irrigation systems without proper backflow protection
- Utility sinks with hoses left hanging below the waterline
At Work:
- Fire sprinkler systems connected to the potable water supply
- Commercial dishwashers or mop sinks plumbed without backflow devices
- Chemical tanks or equipment wash-down systems connected to city water
Our Utilities: Environmental Services Division and Cross-Connection Control Program work year-round to:
- Inspect and maintain backflow prevention devices
- Partner with local businesses, industries, and residents to ensure compliance
- Educate our community on the importance of clean water protection
Water safety is everyone’s responsibility — from the water plant to the tap. Today, we salute our certified testers, inspectors, and public works professionals who make it possible for Valdosta families to enjoy safe water every day.
Your Role Matters: If you have an irrigation system, fire sprinkler, or other connection to the public water system, make sure your backflow prevention device is installed, tested annually, and in good working order.
Want to Learn More?
For more information about protecting your water through backflow prevention — or if you’re interested in the City of Valdosta’s program requirements — contact Ronnie Lancaster, Backflow Prevention Program Coordinator, at (229) 259-3592 or rlancaster@valdostacity.com
Clean water is a community effort. On National Backflow Prevention Day — and every day — let’s keep Valdosta’s water safe, secure, and flowing in the right direction.