DC Water Distributing Sandbags to LeDroit, Bloomingdale Residents

DC Water is currently distributing sandbags to residents who live in LeDroit Park and Bloomingdale ahead of possible flooding, the city agency announced today in a press release.

DC Water personnel are currently distributing the sandbags at First Street and Rhode Island Avenue NW.

Only customers who live in the flood-prone neighborhoods of Bloomingdale, LeDroit Park and on the 900 block of P Street NW can receive a sandbag. Further, people who live in those neighborhoods may be asked to show proof of residency when picking up sandbags. Though proof of residency includes a driver’s license, anything with an address on it would suffice, said John Lisle, DC Water’s chief of external affairs.

The press release continues:

“As with any weather emergency, our crews will brave the elements to ensure that we continue to deliver our essential service,” said DC Water CEO and General Manager George S. Hawkins. “While we cannot control Mother Nature, we will do our best to keep our customers informed and respond to emergencies.”

The District’s drinking water treatment facilities — operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Washington Aqueduct — and the Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant are built to withstand the impact of a severe storm. Loss of electricity at an individual home or multi-unit building does not have an impact on the delivery of drinking water. If any service disruptions should occur, customers will be notified immediately through DC Water’s Alert System, local news media and social media platforms, including Twitter (@dcwater), Facebook (facebook.com/mydcwater) and Instagram (@myDCWater).

DC Water Emergency Preparedness Tips:
–       Sign up for text or email alerts at dcwater.com/workzones
–       Report clogged storm drains by calling the 24/7 Command Center at (202) 612-3400.
–       Check gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear of debris.
–       Prepare an emergency supply kit that includes a 3-day supply of food and water.
–       For more information on preparing for a hurricane, please visit dcwater.com/education/preparedness.cfm.

Cropped photo via https://www.flickr.com/photos/telekon/