The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) Water Business Unit is reminding residents that hoses must not be attached to public standpipes under any circumstances.

Standpipes are shared community resources provided as a public service to support vulnerable residents and households that may not have direct access to a potable water supply.

These facilities are intended to provide safe and reliable access to water for household use and must be used responsibly by all members of the community.

The Water Business Unit warns that the unauthorised attachment of hoses, tampering with standpipes, or any other form of misuse poses a risk of contamination and may create potential public health concerns. Such practices can also lead to excessive water consumption, unnecessary wastage, and reduced water availability for other residents who depend on these facilities.

Acting Water Business Unit Manager, Jason Peters, said the practice undermines the purpose of the service and negatively impacts those who rely on standpipes for their daily needs.

“Standpipes are intended to provide residents with access to potable water for their household needs. When hoses are attached, it can result in excessive water use and wastage and reduce the availability of water for other persons waiting to access the service. We are asking the public to be considerate of their neighbours and to use standpipes only as intended,” Peters said.

The Water Business Unit further advises that the commercial use of standpipes is strictly prohibited. Residents are also urged not to wash vehicles at standpipes, particularly during periods of drought when water resources are under increased pressure.

APUA is encouraging all residents to use water wisely and to remain mindful that many individuals and families depend on these public facilities. Responsible use and conservation will help ensure that standpipes remain safe, accessible, and available to those who need them most.