The Portland Water Bureau will begin turning off the majority of the city's Benson Bubbler drinking fountains this week due to forecasted freezing temperatures and high wind conditions, which could cause safety hazards on sidewalks for pedestrians. Once temperatures warm up, the Bubblers will be turned back on. 

The Water Bureau reminds the public that freezing temperatures can challenge Portland's aging water system and household water pipes. Now is the time to identify where the water shut-off valve is located in your house. Most residential properties have a shut-off valve located near the hot water heater in the basement or garage.

Water is much more likely to freeze in household plumbing than at the water meter. If water is running from any faucet, the meter is not frozen. Learn more about why pipes freeze and what you can do to help prevent your plumbing from freezing.

Lindsay Wochnick
Community Information and Involvement