Emergency Resources

If you are experiencing a water or sewer emergency, please follow these steps:

  1. Shut Off Your Water (If Necessary)
    • If you have a burst pipe or major leak, locate your home’s main water shutoff valve and turn it off to prevent further damage.
    • If you need assistance locating your shutoff valve, contact a licensed plumber or GMWSS for guidance.
  2. Determine the Type of Emergency
    • Water Issues:
      • If you have no water, check with your neighbors to see if they are also affected. This will help determine if the issue is isolated to your home or a larger outage.
      • If you have a water leak, locate the source and attempt to shut off the water if safe to do so.
      • If you notice water quality issues such as discoloration, odors, or unusual tastes, do not consume the water until further guidance is given.
    • Sewer Issues:
      • If you experience a sewer backup, avoid using sinks, toilets, and drains to prevent further backup into your home.
      • Check if your neighbors are also experiencing sewer issues to determine if it is a localized problem or a mainline issue.
      • If there is a strong sewer odor inside your home, ventilate the area and avoid prolonged exposure.
  3. Check for Service Alerts
    • Visit the GMWSS website or follow our official social media pages for any service updates or reported outages.
    • Check your email or text notifications if you are signed up for emergency alerts.
  4. Contact GMWSS
    • For water main breaks, low pressure, or widespread outages, call GMWSS Customer Service at 502-863-7816.
    • For sewer backups or mainline issues, call GMWSS at 502-863-7816.
    • If you have an urgent emergency after hours, call the 24/7 Emergency Line at 502-863-7816 and follow the prompts to leave a message for on call team.
  5. Report Water or Sewer Quality Issues
    • If your water is discolored, has a strong odor, or an unusual taste, report it to GMWSS at 502-863-7816.
    • If you suspect a sewer backup or notice unusual odors outside, report it immediately.
    • Avoid using discolored or odorous water for drinking or cooking until you receive further instructions.
  6. Follow GMWSS Updates and Instructions
    • In the event of a major water or sewer emergency, updates and advisories will be posted on the GMWSS website and social media.
    • Follow any guidance regarding water use restrictions, sewer maintenance, or emergency procedures.

For additional assistance, contact Customer Service.