MWA warns of water-bill scam

The Metropolitan Waterworks Authority (MWA) yesterday warned people not to fall victim to impostors claiming over the telephone to be officials requesting that water-bill payments be deposited into a special bank account.

The agency said it had postponed water-bill payments with due dates from October onwards, and would not cut tap-water services for non-payment until the flood crisis had ended.

The MWA said the city's tap water is safe but made the following suggestions regarding its use during the flooding crisis:

1. Flooded homes with underground water tanks should switch to using tap water as flood water could contaminate the tanks.

2. Do not use water pumps whose pipes are submerged, as breaks would go undetected, causing the pump to suck dirt into the system.

3. Submerged taps can be used by running a clean plastic hose from the tap and lifting the hose clear of the flood water.

4. Because extra chlorine has been added as a disinfectant, tap water should be left in an open container for 30 minutes to let the chlorine smell dissipate. Otherwise, boil tap water before drinking it.

5. In case of evacuation, turn off the water valve in the water meter to prevent leakage. Call the 1125 hotline for more information around the clock.

The Metropolitan Electricity Authority yesterday urged people not to use electrical appliances while standing in floodwater, adding that residents of flooded homes should call the MEA and ask that the power be cut as a precaution. The MEA call centre's number is 1130 (free of charge for people using AIS cell phones).