Emergency Preparedness and Security for Public Water Systems

Safe and secure drinking water is the highest priority, and water systems are continuing to assess their vulnerabilities and taking action to maintain and improve emergency response and security. The Drinking Water & Groundwater Protection Division is working to provide systems with training and tools necessary to continue to protect the state’s drinking water and meeting new emergency planning and security challenges.

Owners and operators are encouraged to the call the Drinking Water & Groundwater Protection Division for further information on how they can protect their public water supply system, including making an appointment for a  vulnerability assessment and/or assistance in the preparation/revision of an emergency response plan.

Emergency contact information for the Drinking Water & Groundwater Protection Division:

Phone: 1-800-823-6500 toll-free in Vermont, or 802-241-3400 (during business hours 7:45am - 4:30pm weekdays)

Pager: for after-hours emergencies: Dial 802-741-5311 - then enter your phone number

(local calls within Vermont for a 24-hour pager for Drinking Water & Groundwater Protection Division emergency response)

Current Events

• Upcoming VTWARN Events
• Training announcements
• Important information

Emergency Planning & Vulnerability Assessments

• Emergency Response Plan
• Vulnerability Assessment  
• Chlorine Dosages for Storage Tank Emergency Disinfection
• Bulk Water Hauling As an Emergency Practice Guidance
• A Vermont Utility Guide for Security Decision Making

 Publications (links to)

• Emergency Response Plan Template
• Generator Information
• Vermont Rural Water Association
• Green Mountain Water Environment
• New England Water Works

Mutual Aid

• Vermont Water & Wastewater Agency Response Network (VTWARN)

VTWARN allows water and wastewater systems in Vermont to receive rapid mutual aid and assistance from other systems in the state to restore services damaged by natural and man-made incidents.

• Water Sector Mutual Aid & Assistance: Utilities Helping Utilities

Funding Assistance

• DWSRF (link to program)
• Source Protection Loan Program
• Public Assistance for Water and Wastewater Utilities in Emergencies and Disasters
• Reimbursement Tips for Water Sector Response and Recovery

Security-Related Resources/Links

• EPA Water Security Website
• Security Product Guide
• Cyber Security 101 for Water Utilities

• Vermont Emergency Management
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
• Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP)

Contact Us