FREEZE WARNING – PROTECT YOUR BACKFLOW DEVICE
Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC
City of North Port
Over the holiday weekend, some areas may be subject to freezing temperatures. Should temperatures dip below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, your above-ground backflow device may freeze due to the location and exposure of the device. You may experience no water (frozen) or damage to the device caused by frozen internal water that may crack or warp the brass internal parts. Therefore, the Utilities Department recommends you winterize your backflow devices to protect them from a frost or freeze should it occur. The freeze usually lasts only a few hours and then it tends to warm up. For this reason, you may only need to prevent the cold from settling on your device.
An inexpensive way to do this would be to cover the devices with burlap-type material and cover with black roofing felt or material similar to that used to protect flowers and plants from frost. Some residents cover their backflow device with pool noodles, blankets, jackets/warm clothing, etc.
The responsibility of protecting the backflow devices is that of the customer. Should you have any questions on this matter, please contact the Utilities office at (941) 240-8000.