As temperatures chill, sprinkler safety urged

Temperatures are dropping in Central Oregon. This means it’s time to think about sprinkler safety and how to prevent those slips, trips and falls caused by excessive water on our sidewalks and streets.

Each year motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians get surprised by wet or icy sidewalks and streets. These surprises may result in accidents that can include serious injury. Please follow these four simple steps to help keep family, friends and neighbors safe.

1) Run each irrigation zone for approximately 10 minutes. Be sure temperatures are above freezing.

2) Inspect all sidewalks, streets and other impervious surfaces for water runoff and overspray.

3) Adjust sprinklers that are creating any water runoff or overspray. Run sprinklers and inspect again if adjustments are required.

4) Reduce programmed irrigation run times due to reduced plant water requirements. Please visit www.waterwisetips.org for additional irrigation scheduling and water conservation information.

For more information related to seasonal sprinkler safety and water conservation, please contact the City of Bend Utility Department at 541-317-3000.