There are many uncertainties as the community navigates through the Coronavirus outbreak, so it is understandable that you may have many questions related to your water services. We have put together this page to help answer many of the questions you may have with regards to the services provided by GWA.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How is GWA working to combat the COVID-19 pandemic?
GWA’s water and wastewater systems play a huge role in keeping the public safe from unwanted pathogens in our water supply. Our treatment and distribution teams have worked diligently to understand viruses and how to prevent any transmission through the water system.
Are there alternative ways to pay my bill while the GWA offices are closed?
Yes, we have several options for bill payment, read all about them here.
How can I report an outage or issue while GWA’s offices are closed?
Our crews are still working day and night to fix any issues that may arise. Please report any issues to 646-4211 or email guamdisp@guamwaterworks.org.
Is drinking tap water safe?
EPA recommends that Americans continue to use and drink tap water as usual. Further, EPA’s drinking water regulations require treatment at public water systems to remove or kill pathogens, including viruses.
Do I need to boil my drinking water?
Boiling your water is not required as a precaution against COVID-19.
What should I do if I’m concerned about my drinking water?
WHO has stated that the, “presence of the COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinking-water supplies and based on current evidence the risk to water supplies is low.”1
[1Source: World Health Organization. 2020. Technical Brief. Water, sanitation, hygiene and waste management for the COVID-19 virus. March.]
Do I need to buy bottled water or store drinking water?
EPA recommends that citizens continue to use and drink tap water as usual. At this time, there are no indications that COVID-19 is in the drinking water supply or will affect the reliable supply of water. In fact, tap water is actually just as safe as bottled water and is much less expensive.
Can I get COVID-19 from wastewater or sewage?
WHO has indicated that “there is no evidence to date that COVID-19 virus has been transmitted via sewerage systems, with or without wastewater treatment.”
Do wastewater treatment plants treat COVID-19?
Yes, wastewater treatment plants treat viruses and other pathogens. COVID-19 is a type of virus that is particularly susceptible to disinfection. Standard treatment and disinfectant processes at wastewater treatment plants are expected to be effective.
MORE INFORMATION
We invite you to stay informed of the latest updates from reliable sources, including